The Government of Ghana has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure a Canadian visa for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the team's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that every available diplomatic avenue is being explored.

Background of the Dispute

Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) refused Partey a Temporary Resident Visa, a decision that prompted a formal diplomatic protest from Ghana.

Canadian authorities reportedly based the refusal on ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where Partey faces multiple rape charges.

Mr Ablakwa strongly criticised the move, describing the decision as “high-handed” and “extremely unfair.”

The Ghanaian government argues that the refusal ignores the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence.

The minister contended that because the midfielder has pleaded not guilty and has not been convicted of any crime, denying him entry before the conclusion of the legal process effectively treats him as guilty before a verdict is reached, undermining fairness and due process.

Sporting Implications and Government Action

Beyond the legal debate, the government expressed serious concerns regarding the sporting implications for the national team.

Partey is a central figure in the Black Stars' tournament plans, and Mr Ablakwa stressed that losing a player of his quality would be a significant setback as Ghana seeks a strong start to the tournament.

Ghana is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign against Group L opponents Panama on June 17 in Canada.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Monday, June 15, the minister acknowledged the urgency but expressed optimism.

"We are using all diplomatic channels available to us and remain hopeful that this matter can be resolved before Ghana’s opening game," he said.

Mr Ablakwa assured that the government is "leveraging our very cordial diplomatic ties" with Canada, noting that he has already spoken to his Canadian counterpart.

He indicated that other avenues are available to the government but stated he would not divulge any details on them.

Ongoing Resolution Efforts

As part of the resolution efforts, the Foreign Affairs Minister has held discussions with Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat.

While FIFA has stated that immigration and visa matters fall outside its jurisdiction and remain the responsibility of host nations, Ghana's Foreign Ministry is continuing to pursue a rapid administrative review of the decision alongside possible legal options.

The government aims to resolve the matter in this critical phase so that Partey can join the national team camp before the opening match against Panama.