Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been granted permanent residency in the United States after a US immigration judge ruled that Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) failed to present sufficient evidence to support allegations of corruption against him.
In a decision issued on June 15, 2026, Judge David Gardey approved Ofori-Atta’s green card application, stating that the affidavit submitted by the OSP did not provide convincing evidence of criminal conduct.
The judge noted that the absence of strong evidence suggesting any criminal wrongdoing or conspiracy involving Ofori-Atta was a significant factor in his decision.
The OSP had filed allegations against the former Finance Minister involving more than 70 criminal charges, including claims of conspiracy and the misuse of public funds during his tenure. However, Judge Gardey described the affidavit as containing mainly unsubstantiated claims and lacking the reliable facts required to prove the allegations.
During proceedings, Ofori-Atta maintained that he had never received any personal benefits from individuals or companies linked to the investigations and did not profit from decisions taken while serving in government. The judge found his testimony credible.
In granting the application, the court also considered Ofori-Atta’s long association with the United States, including his education and professional background in the country, his US citizen son, his clean record under US law, and his continued medical treatment.
The ruling further took into account other developments, including the withdrawal of an Interpol Red Notice related to Ghana’s case, a KPMG review that identified administrative lapses but found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing, and the US Department of Justice’s decision not to proceed with extradition proceedings based on Ghana’s request.
The decision allows Ofori-Atta to remain in the United States as a permanent resident.
