{"id":112362,"date":"2026-01-23T14:49:47","date_gmt":"2026-01-23T14:49:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sotnews.agency\/?p=112362"},"modified":"2026-01-23T14:49:47","modified_gmt":"2026-01-23T14:49:47","slug":"arise-ghana-suspends-picketing-for-a-week-pending-us-response","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sotnews.agency\/?p=112362","title":{"rendered":"Arise Ghana suspends picketing for a week pending US response"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n \t<\/i> Read Time:<\/span>2 Minute, 41 Second <\/div>\n\n <\/div>
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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.<\/p>\n

Speaking on behalf of the group at the protest ground, the leader of Arise Ghana, Bernard Mornah, explained why the petition was submitted. <\/p>\n

\u201cThis request is guided neither by prejudice nor presumption of guilt, but by Ghana\u2019s enduring commitment to due process, transparency, accountability, and the rule of law as enshrined in its constitution and democratic practice,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

He also highlighted the importance of Ghana\u2019s diplomatic relationship with the United States, noting: \u201cGhana 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.\u201d<\/p>\n

On the rationale behind the petition, Mr Mornah added: \u201cIt 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.\u201d<\/p>\n

He outlined Arise Ghana\u2019s request to the US Embassy, stating: \u201cWe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n

On the decision to suspend the picketing temporarily, Mr Mornah said: \u201cIn good faith and in recognition of the United States government\u2019s 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,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cShould 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,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

He expressed the group\u2019s respect for the United States, saying: \u201cWe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n