“High-handed and extremely unfair” – Ghana protests Canada’s refusal of Thomas Partey’s visa

The Government of Ghana has expressed strong reservations over Canada‘s refusal of a temporary residence application for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Teye Partey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement issued in Accra on June 13, 2026, the government described the decision as high-handed and extremely unfair.

According to the statement, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) based its decision on inadmissibility under paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (RPA).

The government said the decision was based on pending criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom which have not resulted in any conviction or judicial finding of guilt.

Ghana reaffirmed the principle of the presumption of innocence, describing it as a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies.

While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, the government said reliance on unproven charges without a judicial determination raises fundamental questions of fairness and proportionality.

The statement said Ghana is pursuing active diplomatic engagements with the relevant Canadian authorities on the matter.

It disclosed that on June 11, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dispatched an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada and requested a review of the decision.

The government said it is determined to explore and pursue all available diplomatic, legal and administrative remedies under Canadian and international law, including judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada where appropriate.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has also been holding talks with Canadian officials, including the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, since the matter came to his attention.

The government noted Partey’s selection for the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the significant national and global sporting considerations involved, and urged Canada to rescind its decision in the interest of fairness and the cardinal principles of common law.

It added that Ghana remains committed to constructive engagement with Canadian authorities and to upholding the rule of law, human rights and the presumption of innocence.

The statement further said Ghana values its longstanding bilateral relations with Canada and hopes diplomatic rapprochement within the context of their historically cordial and friendly ties will lead to an amicable resolution in a timely manner.

The government concluded by expressing hope that football will continue to unite nations, forge lasting bonds of friendship, uphold the rules and promote fair play on and off the field.