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, citing ongoing medical treatment and recovery.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Thursday, January 8, Mr Davies said Mr Ofori-Atta travelled to the U.S. for a medical procedure which has since been completed, but remains under medical supervision as part of his recuperation.
According to him, the former minister is in constant consultation with his medical team, who may advise that he remains in the U.S. for further treatment or monitoring.
“Ken Ofori-Atta left here, and then he gave notice that he was going for a medical procedure that had been done. And if we all know what he’s suffering from, it is not easy. After that, he has to go through a period of recuperation.
“And that is exactly what he is doing. He is in constant consultation with his medical team, and if they advise that the stage at which they are, it is imperative for him to continue to remain in the States, so that they can attend to him, what exactly is wrong with that?” he questioned.
He disclosed that Mr Ofori-Atta’s visa is due to expire on February 14, making it necessary for him to apply for an extension.
“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? Yes, he has applied for an extension, and the petition is with ICE. They will determine it, and in the fullness of time, we will all know whether the petition has merit or not.”
Mr Davies described the application as a routine immigration process and rejected claims suggesting any wrongdoing.
“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,” he said.
He therefore urged the public to avoid speculation, stressing that the process is lawful and ongoing.
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