42 percent of Ghanaian voters disagree with the government’s decision to extradite Fredrick Kumi, known as “Abu Trica,” to the United States. This finding comes from a new survey by GlobalInfo Analytics, released on July 27.
The disagreement primarily concerns the timing of the extradition. Abu Trica was sent to the USA before his appeal process against the extradition order was completed. He faces trial in the USA for an alleged romance fraud scheme involving approximately US$8 million.
This public sentiment reflects ongoing debates in Ghana about legal due process and the nation's judicial independence. The case highlights the complexities of international legal cooperation, especially when domestic legal avenues are not fully exhausted. Such cases can influence public trust in government institutions and their adherence to established legal frameworks.
The High Court in Accra approved Abu Trica's extradition earlier this month. This approval paved the way for his transfer to the USA to face criminal charges. The GlobalInfo Analytics poll surveyed 7,761 voters across all 16 regions in Ghana.
The survey results indicate a significant portion of the populace questions the government's approach. Only 29 percent of respondents agreed with the government’s action. Another 29 percent stated they had no opinion on the matter, showing a divided public. This division suggests a need for greater transparency or clearer communication from authorities regarding such high-profile legal decisions.
The poll, conducted via longitudinal telephone interviews from July 15 to July 24, 2026, has a 99% confidence level. It also carries a margin of error of ±1.5%. These robust statistical parameters lend significant credibility to the survey's findings.
Beyond the extradition, the GlobalInfo Analytics survey also assessed Ghanaians’ views on international relations. Canada emerged as the most favourably viewed global power, with a net favourability rating of 38 points. China followed closely with 34 points, and the United Kingdom received 33 points. The European Union recorded 22 points, while the United States scored 7 points.
Conversely, South Africa received the lowest favourability rating among the assessed countries, with a net negative 61 points. Russia followed with negative 6 points. These ratings provide insight into Ghana's geopolitical leanings and public perception of various international partners.
The public's strong reaction to the Abu Trica extradition could influence future governmental decisions on similar cases. It may also prompt a review of extradition protocols to ensure full adherence to domestic legal processes. Policymakers will likely consider these public sentiments when navigating future international legal requests and managing public perception of justice.