Arise Ghana has temporarily suspended its planned indefinite picketing to allow time for a response from the United States authorities regarding the return of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana.
Speaking on behalf of the group at the protest ground, the leader of Arise Ghana, Bernard Mornah, explained why the petition was submitted.
“This request is guided neither by prejudice nor presumption of guilt, but by Ghana’s enduring commitment to due process, transparency, accountability, and the rule of law as enshrined in its constitution and democratic practice,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of Ghana’s diplomatic relationship with the United States, noting: “Ghana and the United States of America share a long-standing and cordial relationship founded on diplomatic values, good governance, mutual respect for sovereignty, and cooperation in matters of justice and institutional accountability.”
On the rationale behind the petition, Mr Mornah added: “It is in this spirit of partnership and mutual respect that this petition is effectively submitted, with the understanding that the facilitation of lawful processes strengthens public confidence in democratic institutions and reinforces international norms of accountability.”
He outlined Arise Ghana’s request to the US Embassy, stating: “We humbly request that the Embassy, within the bounds of diplomatic boundaries and applicable international and domestic norms, consider providing any assistance or guidance that may support facilitating the return of Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana to engage constructively with relevant state institutions.”
On the decision to suspend the picketing temporarily, Mr Mornah said: “In good faith and in recognition of the United States government’s commitment and consideration of this petition, we have resolved to temporarily suspend our intended indefinite picketing for a period of one week to allow time for a response to our concerns,” he said.
“Should there be no progress after this period, we reserve the right to resume the picketing until Mr. Ken Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta is made available to the Ghanaian authorities, consistent with established precedents of cooperation between our two governments in facilitating the return of Ghanaian citizens to face lawful processes when requested by the United States,” he added.
He expressed the group’s respect for the United States, saying: “We respectfully affirm our highest consideration for the government and the people of the United States of America, and express our profound appreciation to the continued role of the United States in supporting democratic governance, accountability, and institutional integrity in Ghana.”
The demonstration comes as the former minister remains outside the country amid ongoing investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor into several transactions approved during his tenure.
Ken Ofori-Atta, who served as Ghana’s Finance Minister from 2017 to 2024 under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, has been at the centre of multiple public controversies over alleged financial mismanagement and procurement-related concerns.
In recent years, the Office of the Special Prosecutor announced investigations into several transactions approved during his tenure, including revenue assurance contracts, public debt restructuring processes, and payments made under sole-sourcing arrangements.
His lawyers have previously stated that he remains willing to cooperate with any lawful investigative process, citing health and security concerns for his temporary stay outside the country.
