Arise Ghana to protest at U.S. Embassy over Ofori-Atta’s alleged evasion of justice
Pressure group Arise Ghana has announced plans to stage a protest at the United States Embassy in Accra tomorrow, demanding the extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana over what they describe as his evasion of justice.
Speaking on JoyNews, a founding member of the group, Selorm Dzramado, said the protest is aimed at drawing international attention to concerns surrounding Mr Ofori-Atta’s continued absence from Ghana despite ongoing legal processes. He rejected suggestions that the former minister could face hostility if he returns, insisting that Ghana’s constitutional framework guarantees due process and a fair trial under Article 19 of the 1992 Constitution.
Mr Dzramado stressed that Ghana operates under the rule of law, arguing that claims of possible persecution are unfounded. Drawing comparisons with the United States legal system, he noted that America, where Mr Ofori-Atta is believed to be ‘sojourning’, has long upheld fair trial principles, just as Ghana does. He maintained that justice, whether in Ghana or abroad, must be pursued strictly within constitutional boundaries.
The protest follows recent confirmation by Ghana’s Attorney-General in December 2025 that a formal extradition request for Mr Ofori-Atta and an alleged associate had been transmitted to U.S. authorities to answer corruption-related charges in Ghana. Government officials have indicated that all procedural requirements have been met and that the U.S. Department of Justice is currently reviewing the request, with extradition proceedings ongoing.
Mr Ofori-Atta’s legal team, however, has maintained that he is fully cooperating with U.S. immigration authorities, stressing that his stay in the United States is linked to legitimate medical needs. His lawyers insist that appropriate legal channels are being followed to regularise his status and that he remains committed to complying with all relevant laws.
Reaffirming the group’s position, Mr Dzramado described Arise Ghana as non-partisan, noting that its actions are guided by constitutional accountability rather than political affiliation. He stated that the group would equally oppose any attempt by the government to violate Mr Ofori-Atta’s rights should he return to Ghana, emphasising that justice must be applied impartially.
“It is non-partisan. So if Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta comes to Ghana today and we realize that the government is actually violating or contravening his rights, infringing on his rights, Arise Ghana will be up in arms against the government because everything must be done within the precinct of the law and the constitution.” he said
Providing logistical details of the protest, Mr Dzramado said the group has formally notified both the U.S. Embassy and the Ghana Police Service, adding that security assurances have been received. “We have duly notified the U.S. Embassy. We have done the same to the Ghana Police Service, and they have assured us of sufficient protection. We are commencing at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow at the U.S. Embassy.” he assured.
He warned that failure by public office holders to account for their stewardship poses a threat to democratic governance, arguing that accountability remains one of the core pillars of Ghana’s democracy. He called on citizens to participate in the protest, framing it as a civic action aimed at strengthening democratic institutions rather than targeting individuals.
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