ICE can't deport Ofori-Atta until US court decides immigration status petition — Frank Davies

Frank Davies, a member of the legal team for former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, has clarified the status of his client’s detention by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The embattled former minister, who is reportedly outside the country on medical grounds, was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 6, 2026, over the status of his stay.

Speaking on Accra-based Metro TV’s Good Afternoon show on Monday, January 12, Davies noted that a court hearing has been skated for January 20 to review his petition seeking legal adjustment of his stay in the US.

He further explained that under US law, he cannot be deported while the petition is pending.

“At the time that ICE picked him, they had no knowledge of his petition[to extend his stay]… so they were treating him as an illegal immigrant. But he had filed a petition of extending his stay to continue to remain in the United States.

“Until that process is determined and dealt with by a court of competent jurisdiction in the USA, ICE are disabled from deporting Ken into the country,” Davies said.

He explained that the upcoming court session will involve a notice to appear, which is part of the US immigration process and unrelated to any strategic legal proceedings.

Davies further criticised the inconsistencies in public statements from the Office of the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, urging them verify facts before commenting on the case.

“The Attorney General says his visa has been revoked, whilst his deputy is saying his visa has expired. They should put their house in order before they come on air,” he stated.

According to Davies, Ofori-Atta is under proper legal representation, and all matters regarding his stay in the US will be clarified during the January 20 court process.