The Government of Ghana has officially challenged Canada’s decision to deny Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey a temporary residence visa, describing the move as unfair and inconsistent with the principle of presumption of innocence.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the government revealed that it has begun diplomatic efforts to have the decision reversed before Ghana’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Panama on June 17.
Canadian immigration authorities reportedly refused Partey’s visa application under Paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), citing ongoing criminal proceedings involving the player in the United Kingdom.
However, the Ghanaian government argued that the decision was based on allegations that have not resulted in any conviction or judicial finding of guilt.
While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, the Foreign Ministry maintained that relying on unresolved charges raises serious concerns about fairness and due process.
“The decision appears to rely on unproven allegations and undermines the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence, which remains a cornerstone of justice in democratic societies,” the statement noted.
The ministry disclosed that it formally lodged a protest with Global Affairs Canada on June 11, requesting a review of the decision. It added that Ghana is prepared to pursue all available diplomatic, legal and administrative options under Canadian and international law if the matter is not resolved.
According to the statement, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has already engaged Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, in efforts to secure a favourable outcome.
The government stressed that Partey’s inclusion in Ghana’s World Cup squad carries significant sporting implications and called on Canadian authorities to reconsider their position in the interest of fairness and the values underpinning common law justice systems.
Ghana also expressed hope that the matter can be resolved amicably through continued dialogue, citing the longstanding diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The Ministry reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the rule of law, human rights and due process, while urging Canada to review the decision and allow Partey to participate in the tournament.
