Ghana protests Canada’s visa denial to Black Stars star Thomas Partey ahead of 2026 World Cup
Gov’t cites “presumption of innocence”, dispatches diplomatic note and threatens legal action as Partey faces visa refusal over pending UK charges
The Government of Ghana has formally protested Canada’s decision to refuse a temporary residence visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Teye Partey, calling it “high-handed and extremely unfair” as the national team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued in Accra on Friday, June 13, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) denied Partey’s application on grounds of inadmissibility under paragraph A36(1)(c) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
The government explained that the decision was based on pending criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom against the Arsenal star, despite the fact that no conviction or judicial finding of guilt has been made.
*“Presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of justice”*
Ghana reaffirmed the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence, describing it as a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies.
“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.
The government stressed that Partey’s selection for the World Cup carries significant national and global sporting implications, and therefore urged Canada to rescind the decision in the interest of fairness and cardinal principles of common law.
*Diplomatic note, legal options on the table*
On June 11, 2026, Ghana’s Foreign Ministry dispatched an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada and requested a review of the “unfortunate decision.”
The Government said it is determined to explore all available diplomatic, legal and administrative remedies under Canadian and international law. This includes 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.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has also been holding direct talks with Canadian officials, including the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat, since the matter came to his attention.
*Call for fairness ahead of World Cup*
The statement concluded by reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to constructive engagement with Canadian authorities and to upholding the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence.
“Ghana cherishes our longstanding excellent bilateral relations with Canada and hopes that diplomatic rapprochement within the context of our historically cordial and friendly traditions would lead to an amicable resolution in a timely manner,” the government said.
It added: “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.”
Partey, a key midfielder for the Black Stars, is expected to play a central role for Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada will co-host with Mexico and the United States.
