From All-White to Black Attire: How Ofori-Atta made a rare appearance before a US judge

Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta appeared before a United States immigration court on January 20, 2026, for a hearing.

During the proceedings, Ofori-Atta who served as Finance Minister under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo from 2017 to 2024 and is widely known for his signature all-white attire was seen wearing a black outfit, with a jacket worn over it.

US-based immigration lawyer Jonelle Ocloo explained that the outfit worn by the former finance minister was a standard detainee’s attire.

What really happened in Ofori-Atta’s US court case - Immigration lawyer explains

When Ofori-Atta appeared before the immigration judge, he was also seen wearing a nose mask. He later removed the jacket, revealing the full black detainee attire underneath.

The case, which was held in private, has been adjourned to April 27, 2026.

This followed a request by Ofori-Atta’s lawyer, Christopher Chaisson, who prayed for the proceedings to be conducted in private.

The presiding judge granted the request after noting the overwhelming public interest generated by the advertised virtual hearing .

AM

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