Ibrahim Adjei, former Assistant Secretary at the Office of the Former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has shared his perspective on the recent detention of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta in the United States following the revocation of his visa.
Speaking on Breakfast Daily on ChannelOne TV, Adjei explained that a revoked visa differs significantly from an expired visa. “An expired visa, you can reapply again,” he said. “But when it’s revoked, it’s very difficult unless the applicant addresses the cause for which the visa was revoked or cancelled.”
Adjei noted that a visa revocation triggers a Notice to Appear (NTA) before the immigration courts, initiating a review process. He confirmed reports that Ofori-Atta has filed to adjust his status in the U.S., which may provide temporary reprieve while the courts assess his case. “That can give him some breathing room in terms of the court process,” he said, adding that officials are not obliged to wait for the adjustment application to conclude.
The former official highlighted potential factors behind the revocation, including ineligibility or issues related to Ofori-Atta’s medical visa for prostate cancer treatment. Entering the U.S. in January 2025 on a typical three-month medical visa, questions arise about the extension process and whether new medical evidence could have affected his eligibility.
Adjei emphasised that misconduct appears unlikely. “Misconduct in terms of criminal activity, I doubt that, totally doubt that,” he said, noting that other information, possibly from external sources, could have influenced the Department of State’s decision.
He further referenced ongoing extradition efforts by the Ghanaian government, noting that if such information prompted the U.S. authorities to revoke the visa, it could explain the current legal proceedings.
As the situation develops, experts suggest that Ofori-Atta’s adjustment of status application and medical documentation may play a critical role in determining the next steps in his immigration and legal process.