Ofori-Atta’s ICE detention: Put your house in order before going public — lawyer tells AG
Frank Davies, a member of the legal team representing former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, has called on the Office of the Attorney General to ensure accuracy before making public statements about his client’s detention in the United States.
The remarks follow claims by Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s visa had been revoked, leading to his detention by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
His deputy, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, later said the visa was expired, creating apparent confusion, according to the lawyer.
Speaking on Accra-based Metro TV’s Good Afternoon show on Monday, January 12, Mr. Davies stressed that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s detention is part of a routine administrative immigration process and unrelated to any strategic legal proceedings.
“The notice to appear is a process which is determined by a court in the US. Ken is not an illegal immigrant; he has filed a petition for adjustment of his immigration status, which the authorities were initially unaware of,” Mr. Davies said.
“The Attorney General says his visa has been revoked, whilst his deputy says his visa has expired. They should put their house in order before they come on air. We have a court process set for January 20, and that is what matters now.”
Mr. Davies added that Mr. Ofori-Atta is receiving proper legal representation and the matter will be fully addressed in the upcoming court session.
He urged the public and media to avoid spreading misinformation as they wait for the outcome of the judicial process.
“This is purely an administrative immigration matter, and all proceedings will be determined by the competent US court. The lawyers are handling it, and we ask that everyone respects the process,” he stressed.