Extradition proceedings have commenced in the United States against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, according to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

The development was disclosed in court on Thursday, February 26, during the hearing of a criminal case involving Ofori-Atta and seven others.

Two parallel proceedings in the US

Prosecutors informed the court that two separate legal processes have been initiated in the United States.

The first concerns alleged immigration violations and reportedly began in January 2026.

The second, which commenced this week, relates to Ghana’s formal extradition request seeking Ofori-Atta’s return to face trial.

The Republic further indicated that Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had advised the Attorney-General that the United States Department of Justice has acknowledged receipt of the extradition package. The charge sheet and summons have also been transmitted to U.S. authorities.

According to the prosecution, Ghana is awaiting the outcome of both the immigration matter and the extradition proceedings before determining when Ofori-Atta may be available to appear before the Ghanaian court.

Extradition requests and amended charges

The OSP reminded the court that it had earlier obtained 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.

Meanwhile, prosecutors disclosed that the charge sheet in the broader case has been amended. Although the substance of the allegations remains unchanged, the total number of counts has been reduced from 78 to 75 following corrections.

As a result of the amendments, affected accused persons had their pleas retaken in court. All entered pleas of not guilty.

The OSP also informed the court that two additional witness statements have been filed.

The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2026.