Frank Davies, legal counsel for former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, has confirmed that his client has applied for an extension of his stay in the United States. The reason cited for this extension is ongoing medical treatment and a period of recovery following a medical procedure which has since been completed. Mr Davies, speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story, explained that Mr Ofori-Atta remains under medical supervision as part of his recuperation process, indicating he is in constant consultation with his medical team who may advise further treatment or monitoring in the U.S.

Mr Davies clarified that Ken Ofori-Atta’s visa is due to expire on February 14, making the application for an extension a necessary step. He described this process as a routine immigration procedure for individuals unable to leave a country when expected due to unforeseen circumstances. The petition for extension has been submitted to ICE, which will determine its merit. Davies rejected any claims suggesting wrongdoing, urging the public to avoid speculation about a lawful and ongoing process that is common practice in every jurisdiction.

Conversely, Marion Gifty Nyaaba, co-convener of the activist group Arise Ghana, has reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to holding government officials accountable, specifically demanding the repatriation of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. Speaking at the Ghana International Press Centre, Ms Nyaaba outlined Arise Ghana’s vision for transparent and responsive leadership in Ghana. She confirmed plans for the group to picket the American Embassy in Accra to press for Ofori-Atta’s return so he can face justice in Ghana.

Nyaaba’s remarks were part of a broader address that sought to place Ghana's current situation under scrutiny. She emphasized that Arise Ghana’s mission is not politically motivated, nor is it designed for personal attacks or partisan politics. Instead, its purpose is a profound, honest reflection on the state of Ghana, ensuring the government delivers on its promises. The group has been vocal about its demands for Ofori-Atta's repatriation to answer questions regarding his controversial role in the country’s financial management, calling on the American Embassy for assistance in this matter to allow the legal process to run its course.

This move is integral to Arise Ghana’s broader agenda to maintain a consistent and rigorous evaluation of government performance. Ms Nyaaba urged all Ghanaians to engage in this process as a national duty, policing government policies. While acknowledging progress in stabilizing the economy, she stressed that sustainable economic recovery is unattainable if corruption is left unchecked. The group aims to guard a change not just in government, but in the very way Ghana is governed, building this change on accountability and transparency.

The planned picket at the American Embassy is just one component of Arise Ghana’s ongoing campaign. Ms Nyaaba outlined ambitious goals for the year ahead, stressing that this is merely the beginning of their efforts. She stated that the group will continuously assess the performance of the government, sector by sector, on a weekly, monthly, and quarterly basis, offering recommendations and demanding change where deficiencies are identified. Arise Ghana, Nyaaba declared, is committed to the long haul, pushing until real change is achieved, upholding the rule of law, transparency, and the pursuit of justice for the people of Ghana.