According to US-based immigration attorney Jonelle Ocloo, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s appearance before a US immigration court on January 20, 2026, was a bail redetermination hearing rather than the deportation or extradition hearing that was widely reported.

Ofori-Atta came before the immigration court in an online-streamed hearing after being detained and arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He is still detained in spite of the proceedings.

In an interview with Joy News on January 20, 2026, Ocloo clarified the nature of the court session and emphasised that the public had misinterpreted the hearing.

She claims that while the immigration process is ongoing, Ofori-Atta’s legal team is requesting his release from detention.

“All right, so to be clear, I know you are aware that it was said that his deportation hearing was today, but that is untrue. His bond hearing was being redetermined today.

That’s what I received. In other words, his solicitors had already asked for his release on bond. His attorneys are essentially attempting to get him released from custody. He is being held. They simply want to get him out since I’m sure he’s uncomfortable in his current circumstance.

“Instead of essentially being in detention, as you see him there, in his uniform, in the jumpsuit, they want him to be able to return home for the remainder of this process,” she stated.

The attorney went on to explain that the proceedings are solely related to immigration issues and have nothing to do with extradition or criminal accusations.

“We are not discussing extradition or criminal matters. This relates to charges related to immigration.

She clarified that the master calendar hearing, where the US government formally details the alleged immigration offences, would be the next significant phase in the case.

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