The Government of Ghana has criticised Canada’s decision to deny a visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Teye Partey, describing it as “high-handed and extremely unfair,” and has threatened to pursue legal action if the decision is not reversed.
In an official statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the government expressed deep reservations over the refusal of a temporary residence application for the 32-year-old Villarreal midfielder. The denial means Partey will miss Ghana’s crucial opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Panama.
According to the statement, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) based the refusal on inadmissibility under paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), citing pending criminal proceedings against Partey in the United Kingdom. The player faces multiple charges but has not been convicted of any offence.
The Government of Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to the presumption of innocence, describing it as a cornerstone of justice and due process.
“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 read.
According to the Ministry, Ghana on June 11, 2026 dispatched an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada, requesting a review of the decision.
The Ministry also confirmed that Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has been engaging directly with Canadian officials, including the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat.
Ghana said it is determined to explore all available diplomatic, legal, and administrative remedies, including judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada, to ensure Partey receives fair consideration.
“The Government of Ghana is determined to explore and pursue all available diplomatic, legal and administrative remedies under Canadian and international law, including, where appropriate, judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada, to ensure full and fair consideration of all relevant legal and factual issues in accordance with due process,” the statement said.
The statement further urged Canada to rescind the decision in the interest of fairness, common law principles, and the “significant national and global sporting considerations” at stake, given Partey’s selection for the World Cup squad.
Despite the tension, Ghana emphasised its commitment to the longstanding cordial bilateral relations with Canada and expressed hope for an amicable resolution through diplomatic channels.
“May the beautiful game of football continue to live up to its reputation of uniting nations, forging lasting bonds of friendship, playing by the rules, and promoting fair play both on and off the field,” the statement concluded.
Partey, a key figure in the Black Stars midfield, remains with the team’s base camp in Boston, USA, but will be unable to join his teammates for the Panama fixture.
