Extradition proceedings have commenced in the United States this week against former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, according to the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
This was revealed in court on Thursday, February 26, during the hearing of the criminal case against Ken Ofori-Atta and 7 others.
The OSP revealed in court that two separate proceedings have been instituted against the former finance minister in the United States.
The first relates to alleged immigration violations which commenced in January 2026.
The second proceeding, which began this week, concerns Ghana’s formal extradition request seeking his return to stand trial.
The Republic further told the court that Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised the Attorney-General that the United States Department of Justice has acknowledged receipt of the extradition package.
The charge sheet and summons in respect of Ofori-Atta have also been transmitted to U.S. authorities.
Prosecutors indicated that Ghana is currently awaiting the outcome of both the immigration matter and the extradition proceedings before advising the court on when Ofori-Atta may be available to appear.
The OSP reminded the court that it had previously secured permission for summons to be issued for service of the charge sheet on Ofori-Atta and another accused person, Ernest Darko Akore.
Both individuals are subjects of extradition requests filed by the OSP with the Attorney-General on November 19, 2025.
Charges amended, pleas retaken
Meanwhile, the prosecution informed the court that the charge sheet in the broader case has been amended, though the substance of the charges remains unchanged.
Originally numbered up to 78 counts, corrections have reduced the total to 75.
As a result of the amendments, the pleas of affected accused persons were retaken in court. All entered pleas of not guilty.
The OSP also disclosed that two additional witness statements have been filed.
The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2026.
