What President Mahama said about Ken Ofori-Atta's extradition case

President John Dramani Mahama has declined to comment on the ongoing extradition request involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, calling for restraint as the case proceeds under the United States legal system.

Speaking on Monday, March 30, 2026, during a Presidential Dialogue with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Jubilee House, the President noted that the matter falls beyond Ghana’s direct authority and must be handled through the appropriate judicial processes in the US.

Ghanaian authorities have submitted a formal request seeking Mr Ofori-Atta’s return from the United States to face several allegations linked to corruption, as part of wider investigations into suspected financial misconduct during his time in office from 2017 to 2024.

Mr Ofori-Atta is currently in the United States, where he was taken into custody earlier this year by federal immigration officials over visa-related concerns. Reports also indicate that he is pursuing permanent residency while challenging the extradition bid.

Meanwhile, a US federal judge has requested official documentation to support Ghana’s extradition application, highlighting the legal hurdles and complexities surrounding the case as it unfolds.

“I cannot comment on the extradition of our former Finance Minister because it is in a different jurisdiction… we just have to be patient for the law to play out in that jurisdiction. It is not within our jurisdiction, but the American judiciary…” President Mahama said.