April 03, 2026
News
The bond hearing from the former finance minister Mr Ken Ofori-Atta in the United States is set to take place today, February 19, 2026, as a federal judge tackles the question of whether Ghanaian authorities have filed proper proof of an extradition request.
Judge David A. Gardey told lawyers handling the former minister’s immigration case that the court “cannot act on assertions without proof”, demanding that documented evidence of an extradition request be submitted by today before he considers any decision on bond or release.
The hearing follows a closed-door court session on January 20, where the judge paused consideration of Ofori-Atta’s bail
application after state attorneys opposed his release, citing the pending extradition effort by Ghana.
Mr Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister in the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, has been detained by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since early January while his immigration status is reviewed. Prosecutors say his visitor visa was revoked, leaving him without a lawful basis to remain in the country.
His lawyers argued in the January hearing that he has cooperated with authorities and is pursuing legal avenues, including an adjustment of status petition that would allow him to remain in the US under current immigration law.
Ghanaian authorities have separately moved to secure his extradition to face those charges, a process that hinges on formal documentation now due before the judge’s ruling.
In a related development, INTERPOL recently removed a Red Notice against Ofori-Atta, a move his lawyers say was based on the notice’s “predominantly political” character.
Credit/Myjoyonline.com
Contractors executing the Sunyani Outer Ring Road project, under the government’s ‘Big Push’ road infrastructure initiative have assured quality works, pledging to complete the 34-kilometer-dual-carriage asphaltic road, even before the stipulated period.
They expressed appreciation for the cooperation received from traditional authorities, residents and all stakeholders so far, however, pleaded with the residents to stay off the project.
President John Dramani Mahama performed the ground breaking ceremony for the 34-km Sunyani Outer Ring Road project on December 21, 2025, under the “Big Push” to boost economic growth, reduce congestion, and improve connectivity in the regional capital.
During a visit, Mr Kofi Kamkam, the Site Engineer of the Kofi Job Company Limited told the Sompa FM that the project was expected to be completed in two years, however added that with the level of cooperation from stakeholders, the project be completed before the stipulated period.
He explained that the road project linked communities like Fiapre, Nanketewa, Old Abesim as well as Old Odomase and New Odomase, connecting to the main Sunyani-Berekum and Sunyani-Abesim highways.
Mr Kamkam said presently, the company was undertaking major earth works as well as the construction of the 26 bridges (box culvert) on the road.
He said the major challenge confronting the execution of the project now had to do with the closure of the 13 largely open pits, to be left at the center of the double-lane, explaining that per the contract the company was to leave those pits opened.
Sompanline.com/K.Peprah
Security analyst Richard Kumadoe has called for intensified public education and stronger institutional support following reports of attacks on Ghanaian traders in Burkina Faso.
Responding to the incident in an interview with Ama Konadu, the hostess of the Sunyani-based Sompa FM ‘Adea Akye Abia’ morning show, Mr. Kumadoe stressed the need for a more proactive national approach to protect Ghanaian citizens who travel outside the country for business.
“What we need to start doing is responding not reacting. And responding vigorously across the country,” he said. “We must provide travel guidance, clear advisory information, and sustained awareness creation. We need to educate our mothers and traders who travel to these places so they do not fall victim again.”
Mr. Kumadoe noted that the situation highlights significant gaps in public education and pre-travel preparation for citizens engaging in international trade, particularly in high-risk environments.
“What this tells us is that public education and awareness creation remain a problem,” he stated. “Those who have travelled before will tell you that one of the best places to get advice from is the embassy. Failing to seek proper guidance before travelling can land you in serious trouble.”
He emphasized the critical role of diplomatic missions in offering travel advisories, security briefings, and cultural orientation to citizens planning trips abroad.
However, the Government of the Republic of Ghana says that the recent jihadist attack of 14th February, 2026 in Titao, in the northern province of Burkina Faso has now claimed eight Ghanaian lives.
According to a statement issued, seven members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association who were engaged in lawful trading activities in the Titao area were attacked and killed by the terrorists.
The latest victim, also a member of the Association, was one of four compatriots who sustained serious injuries and were receiving medical treatment before succumbing.
Mr. Kumadoe urged authorities to step up proactive communication strategies, including community outreach programs, media campaigns, and localized education initiatives targeting frequent cross-border traders.
He further encouraged traders to make it a priority to consult Ghana’s diplomatic missions before embarking on business trips, particularly to countries facing security challenges.
Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan
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