Ghana’s former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has been released from custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after being held over issues related to his immigration status.
Mr. Ofori-Atta had been in ICE custody since January 2026. His legal team, Minkah-Premo Osei-Bonsu Bruce-Cathline and Partners, clarified in an earlier notice that his detention was linked to questions regarding his continued stay in the United States and not connected to any criminal offence.
In a statement dated April 8, 2026, the firm confirmed that he was released on April 7 and has since returned home to be with his family. The statement added that he remains committed to pursuing due process in defending his rights under U.S. law.
Despite his release, the former minister continues to face multiple legal challenges. He and five others are reportedly facing more than 70 criminal charges tied to ongoing corruption investigations.
Among the cases are allegations that a contract awarded to Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) resulted in a financial loss exceeding GH¢1.4 billion to the state.
Mr. Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister from 2017 to early 2024 under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has been under investigation over decisions taken during his tenure.
His legal team also expressed gratitude to individuals who offered prayers and support to him and his family during the period of his detention.
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