Finance Minister Applied for US Stay Extension on Health Grounds – Lawyer

Legal counsel for former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, Frank Davies, has confirmed that his client has formally applied for an extension of his stay in the United States on medical grounds.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story programme on Thursday, January 8, Mr. Davies explained that former Finance Minister Mr. Ofori-Atta travelled to the United States to undergo a medical procedure, which has since been completed.

However, he said the former finance minister remains under medical supervision as part of his post-procedure recovery.

According to the lawyer, Mr. Ofori-Atta is in continuous consultation with his medical team, who may recommend that he stay in the US for further monitoring or additional treatment, depending on his condition.

“Ken Ofori-Atta left here and duly gave notice that he was travelling for a medical procedure, which has been done. If we all know what he is suffering from, it is not easy. After that, there is a period of recuperation,” Mr. Davies stated.

“He is in constant consultation with his medical team, and if they advise that, at the stage he is, it is imperative for him to remain in the United States so they can continue attending to him, what exactly is wrong with that?” he queried.

Mr. Davies disclosed that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s visa is set to expire on February 14, making it necessary for him to apply for an extension to regularise his stay.

“If you visit a country and, for some reason, are unable to leave when you are supposed to, you apply to extend your stay. What is so strange about that?” he asked.

“Yes, he has applied for an extension, and the petition is with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). They will determine it, and in the fullness of time, we will all know whether the petition has merit or not.”

Read: Lawyers Move to Block Possible Deportation of Ken Ofori-Atta After ICE Detention

Also read: Ken Ofori Atta Detained by ICE in the US Amid Legal and Health Concerns

The lawyer described the application as a routine immigration process, rejecting suggestions of any illegality or impropriety.

“This is a normal practice in every jurisdiction. If someone is unable to leave a country when their visa expires due to unforeseen circumstances, they apply for an extension,” Mr. Davies explained.

He urged the public to refrain from speculation and misinformation, stressing that the matter is being handled lawfully and through the appropriate immigration channels.

Mr. Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister under the Akufo-Addo administration, has been in the United States since early 2025 for medical reasons, according to his legal team. The outcome of his application now rests with US immigration authorities.

Finance Minister Applied for US Stay Extension on Health Grounds