Ofori-Atta Declines Consular Meeting After ICE Detention — Ghana Embassy Confirms

The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC, has confirmed that former Minister for Finance, Mr. Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, declined a meeting with consular officials after his detention by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), insisting that any engagement take place only in the presence of his legal representatives.

In a statement issued to all media houses, the Embassy explained that consular officials formally requested access to Mr. Ofori-Atta after verifying his detention, in line with international and diplomatic protocols. However, the detention facility later informed the Embassy that the former minister preferred not to meet consular representatives without his lawyers.

The Embassy emphasized that the request for access formed part of its routine responsibility to provide consular assistance to Ghanaian nationals abroad, particularly in cases involving detention by foreign authorities.

Although Mr. Ofori-Atta declined the initial engagement, the Embassy stated that it remains in communication with relevant U.S. authorities and continues to monitor the situation closely. It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that his rights are fully respected throughout the process.

The statement, signed by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, did not disclose the reasons for the detention or indicate when consular access may be granted.

Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal team has not yet commented publicly.