Legal practitioner Frank Davies says the activation of extradition processes against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta does not automatically mean he will be returned to Ghana, stressing that the procedure must first satisfy strict legal requirements under United States law.
Speaking on The Big Bulletin with Fritz Delanyo Anegashie on Thursday, (18 December) Davies explained that although Ghana is a signatory to extradition treaties with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries, extradition is neither immediate nor guaranteed.
“Ghana has signed on to the establishing treaty with the United States, the United Kingdom and many other countries. So, if the processes have been formally activated, that is what it should be,” he said. “But beyond that, it is not just a matter of applying for an extradition. It has to meet the requirements of law insofar as the United States justice delivery system is concerned.”
Davies noted that the U.S. Department of Justice will independently assess whether the request meets the necessary legal thresholds before any decision is made.
“It’s a long road,” he said. “The process may be activated, but whether it will be acceded to is another matter altogether.”
Asked what the development means for Ofori-Atta and his legal team, Davies said the former minister is fully aware of the process and has competent legal representation in the United States prepared to respond appropriately.
“As far as these processes have been served, he knows what to do,” he stated. “There are lawyers who have been engaged and are waiting to respond as required.”
Davies dismissed suggestions that Ofori-Atta is evading justice or fearful of prosecution, insisting that his client has always acted within the law.
“Mr Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta is not scared of prosecution,” he said. “If it is the case that he has to come, he will come and face the law.”
He further urged the public to avoid speculation and what he described as “prejudicial statements,” cautioning that panic and political interpretations would not help the process.
“Let us all hold our breath and wait and see. Reactions will not help anybody,” Davies said, adding that compliance with due process and the rule of law remains paramount.
On whether political influence could affect the outcome of the extradition request, Davies rejected the suggestion outright.
“We have always said that everything should be compliant with due process and the rule of law,” he stressed. “I don’t know of any political motivation, and I have never suggested one.”
Davies concluded by reiterating that the final decision rests with U.S. authorities.
“The mere fact that an extradition proceeding has been activated does not mean it has met the necessary standards,” he said. “The Department of Justice will determine whether the requirements have been satisfied. Until then, we wait.”
Source: asaaseradio.com
