Ghana calls on Canada to reverse Thomas Partey’s visa refusal

The Government of Ghana has formally lodged a protest against Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence visa to Black Stars deputy captain and midfielder Thomas Partey and says it is pursuing diplomatic and legal measures to overturn the ruling ahead of Ghana’s opening FIFA World Cup fixture against Panama on June 17, 2026.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the government described the visa refusal as “high-handed and extremely unfair,” arguing that the decision was based on unresolved criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom that have not resulted in any conviction or judicial determination of guilt.

The development has generated significant public debate in Ghana and raised concerns about the potential impact on the Black Stars’ preparations for the tournament.

According to the government, Canadian immigration authorities denied Partey’s application for temporary entry under Paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), a provision that addresses inadmissibility on grounds related to criminality.

However, Ghanaian authorities contend that the decision appears to have been based on allegations that remain before the courts and have not been proven.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the principle of presumption of innocence is a fundamental element of justice systems around the world and should be respected until a court reaches a final determination.

“While respecting Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana considers that reliance on unproven charges in the absence of a judicial determination raises fundamental questions of fairness and proportionality,” the ministry stated.

The government disclosed that it has already initiated active diplomatic engagement with Canadian authorities in an effort to secure a review of the decision.

According to the statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs submitted an official note of protest to Canadian authorities through Global Affairs Canada on June 11, requesting reconsideration of the visa refusal.

Officials say discussions have since intensified as Ghana seeks a swift resolution before the Black Stars begin their World Cup campaign.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has reportedly held consultations with Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, to explore possible avenues for resolving the matter.

Beyond diplomatic engagement, the government indicated that it is prepared to pursue all available legal, administrative, and diplomatic remedies under Canadian and international law.

The statement noted that if necessary, Ghana could support efforts to seek a judicial review of the decision before the Federal Court of Canada.

Legal experts say judicial review proceedings could examine whether the visa refusal was consistent with Canadian immigration law and principles of administrative fairness.

While the process could take time, Ghanaian authorities hope diplomatic intervention will result in a quicker resolution that allows the player to join the national team without delay.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the significance of Partey’s role in Ghana’s national team setup, noting that his inclusion in the Black Stars squad carries important sporting implications for the country.

As one of Ghana’s most experienced international players, Partey is expected to play a key role in the team's midfield during the World Cup campaign.

Officials argued that preventing him from entering Canada before any court has determined his guilt undermines principles of fairness and could adversely affect Ghana’s participation in a major international sporting event.

The government therefore urged Canadian authorities to reconsider and rescind the decision in keeping with common law traditions and internationally recognised principles of justice.

Despite expressing disappointment with the visa refusal, the government reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and respectful diplomatic engagement.

The Ministry stressed that Ghana remains dedicated to upholding the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence while seeking a solution that respects the interests of both countries.

“Ghana remains committed to constructive engagements with Canadian authorities and to upholding the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence,” the statement said.

Officials also expressed confidence that the matter can be resolved through diplomatic channels, citing the longstanding and cordial bilateral relations between Ghana and Canada.

With Ghana’s opening World Cup match against Panama fast approaching, attention is now focused on whether Canadian authorities will reconsider the visa decision in time for Partey to participate in the tournament and support the Black Stars’ campaign on the global stage.