Ofori-Atta Refuses to Meet Ghana Embassy Officials in U.S. Detention

The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC, has disclosed that Ghana’s former Minister for Finance, Mr. Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, declined to meet with consular officials following his detention by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), insisting on the presence of his legal representatives.

According to a statement issued by the Embassy and addressed to all media houses, consular officials formally requested access to Mr. Ofori-Atta after confirming his detention, in line with established diplomatic and international protocols. However, the detention facility later informed the Embassy that the former finance minister chose not to engage with consular representatives at that time without his lawyers present.

The Embassy noted that the request for access was part of its standard responsibility to provide consular assistance to Ghanaian nationals abroad, particularly in situations involving detention by foreign authorities.

Despite the declined engagement, the Embassy emphasized that it remains in contact with the relevant United States authorities and continues to closely monitor developments surrounding the case. It reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s rights are fully respected throughout the process.

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

Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal team has not publicly commented on the matter.