Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s attorney, Frank Davies, has stated that his client has requested a stay extension in the US, claiming continued medical care and recuperation.
On Thursday, January 8, Mr Davies stated on Joy FM’s Top Story that Mr. Ofori-Atta travelled to the United States for a medical operation, which has since been finished, but he is still under medical monitoring as part of his recuperation.
He claims that the former minister is constantly consulting with his medical team, who might suggest that he stay in the United States for more care or observation.
“Ken Ofori-Atta left here, and then he gave notice that he was going for a medical procedure. 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 said that Mr Ofori-Atta must seek an extension because his visa is set to expire on February 14.
“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.
NKONKONSA.com
