The Government of Ghana has formally protested Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Teye Partey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the move as unfair and raising concerns about its implications for due process and the presumption of innocence.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the government expressed “strong reservations” over the decision by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to reject Partey’s application on grounds of inadmissibility under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
According to the statement, the refusal is based on pending criminal proceedings against the footballer in the United Kingdom, despite the absence of any conviction or judicial finding of guilt.
The government stressed that the presumption of innocence remains a fundamental principle of justice and due process in democratic societies and argued that reliance on unresolved allegations raises “fundamental questions of fairness and proportionality.”
While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana said it considers the decision to be excessively harsh given the circumstances.
As part of efforts to seek a reversal of the decision, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 11 dispatched an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada and requested a review of the visa refusal.
The statement disclosed that Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has also engaged Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, on the matter.
Government indicated that it is exploring 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.
Officials noted that Partey’s selection for Ghana’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup adds significant national and international sporting considerations to the case. Ghana has therefore urged Canadian authorities to reconsider and rescind the decision in the interest of fairness and adherence to common law principles.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to constructive dialogue with Canada and emphasized its dedication to the rule of law, human rights and due process.
Despite the dispute, Ghana expressed hope that the issue would be resolved amicably, citing the longstanding cordial relations between the two countries.
The statement concluded with a call for football to continue serving as a force for unity among nations, promoting friendship, fair play and respect both on and off the pitch.
