The Government of Ghana has formally expressed its displeasure over Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence visa application for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a press release dated June 13, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the decision as “high-handed and extremely unfair,” stating that the refusal could prevent the Ghana international from participating fully in the tournament being co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico.
According to the statement, Canadian immigration authorities reportedly based their decision on inadmissibility provisions under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), citing ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom. The Ghanaian government noted that the matter has not resulted in any conviction or judicial finding of guilt.
The Ministry emphasized the legal principle of the presumption of innocence, arguing that reliance on unproven allegations raises serious concerns regarding fairness and proportionality.
“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 statement said.
The government disclosed that it has initiated diplomatic engagements with Canadian authorities and has already submitted an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada, requesting a review of the decision.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is also reported to have held discussions with Canadian officials, including the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, following the development.
The statement further indicated that Ghana is prepared to explore all available diplomatic, legal and administrative avenues, including judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada, to ensure the matter receives what it described as a fair and comprehensive assessment.
The government stressed the significance of Partey’s inclusion in Ghana’s World Cup squad and urged Canada to reconsider its position in the interest of fairness and due process.
Despite the disagreement, Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with Canada and expressed hope that continued dialogue would lead to an amicable resolution.
The Black Stars are preparing for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with uncertainty remaining over Partey’s availability following the visa setback.
