The Government of Ghana has formally protested Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the move as unfair and inconsistent with the principle of presumption of innocence.
In a statement issued on Friday, the government said it had serious concerns about the decision by Canadian immigration authorities to reject Partey’s application on grounds of inadmissibility linked to ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom that have not resulted in a conviction.
According to the statement, Ghana believes Canada’s reliance on unresolved legal proceedings raises questions about fairness, due process and proportionality, particularly as no court has found the footballer guilty of any offence.
The government stressed that the presumption of innocence remains a fundamental principle of justice in democratic societies and should be respected until a judicial determination is made.
The diplomatic row has prompted swift action from Accra, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dispatching an official note of protest to Canadian authorities on June 11, requesting a review of the decision.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has also engaged in discussions with Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, as government intensifies efforts to reverse the visa refusal.
Officials say Ghana is exploring all available diplomatic, administrative and legal avenues under Canadian and international law, including the possibility of seeking judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada.
The government argued that the matter carries significant national importance given Partey’s selection for the Black Stars squad and the broader sporting implications for Ghana’s participation in the FIFA World Cup.
While reaffirming its respect for Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, the government urged Ottawa to reconsider its position in the interest of fairness and the principles of common law.
The statement also underscored Ghana’s commitment to maintaining its longstanding bilateral relationship with Canada, expressing hope that ongoing diplomatic engagements would lead to an amicable and timely resolution.
The dispute comes at a crucial moment for Ghana’s World Cup preparations and has the potential to test diplomatic relations between the two countries, with government officials insisting that sporting considerations should not override fundamental legal protections afforded to individuals facing unresolved legal proceedings.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
