Accra, Ghana – June 13, 2026
The Government of Ghana has formally expressed its dissatisfaction with Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Teye Partey, a move that could prevent the player from participating in Ghana’s opening Group Stage match against Panama at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Ghanaian government described the decision by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as “high-handed” and “extremely unfair,” noting that the refusal was reportedly based on inadmissibility provisions under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
According to the statement, Canadian authorities relied on ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom, despite the fact that no conviction or judicial finding of guilt has been made against the player.
“The Government of Ghana reaffirms the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies,” the statement said.
While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign right to administer and enforce its immigration laws, Ghana argued that denying entry on the basis of unresolved allegations raises serious concerns regarding fairness, proportionality, and due process.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has initiated diplomatic efforts aimed at reversing the decision. The government confirmed that an official note of protest was submitted to Global Affairs Canada on June 11, requesting a review of the visa refusal.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has also engaged in discussions with senior Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, in an effort to secure a resolution before Ghana’s World Cup campaign begins.
The government further indicated that it is prepared to pursue all available diplomatic, legal, and administrative avenues under Canadian and international law, including the possibility of seeking judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada.
Highlighting Partey’s importance to the national team and the wider sporting significance of the FIFA World Cup, Ghana urged Canadian authorities to reconsider their decision in the interest of justice and the principles of common law.
“The Government of Ghana remains committed to constructive engagement with Canadian authorities and to upholding the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence,” the statement added.
Despite the dispute, Ghana emphasized its longstanding and cordial bilateral relationship with Canada, expressing hope that ongoing diplomatic discussions will lead to an amicable and timely resolution.
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, the visa controversy has become a major talking point among Ghanaian football supporters, who await clarity on whether one of the Black Stars’ most influential players will be available for the nation’s opening fixture against Panama.
The government concluded its statement by calling on all parties to uphold the spirit of football, describing the sport as a powerful force for unity, friendship, fairness, and respect among nations.
