The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has formally protested Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence application for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey, describing the move as unfair and inconsistent with the principle of due process.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it expressed what it called “strong reservations” over the refusal, which could prevent the player from travelling to Canada for Ghana’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup fixture against Panama.
The government noted that Partey remains an important member of Ghana’s national team and argued that the decision was taken despite the absence of any conviction or judicial finding of guilt in relation to criminal proceedings currently pending against him in the United Kingdom.
Canadian authorities are understood to have based the refusal on inadmissibility provisions under paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), a decision Ghana believes raises important concerns about fairness and proportionality.
Ghana Defends Presumption of Innocence
The Ministry stressed that the case touches on a fundamental legal principle that underpins democratic justice systems around the world. “The Government of Ghana reaffirms the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies,” the statement said.
Officials argued that relying on allegations that have not been tested or determined by a court risks undermining that principle. While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign authority to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana maintained that decisions based on unresolved legal proceedings deserve careful scrutiny.
The government stated that it has already initiated diplomatic engagements with Canadian authorities in an effort to secure a review of the decision. According to the statement, an official note of protest was transmitted to Global Affairs Canada on June 11, requesting that the visa refusal be reconsidered.
Beyond diplomatic channels, Ghana indicated that it is prepared to explore additional legal and administrative options available under both Canadian and international law. The statement revealed that these measures could include seeking judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada should the need arise.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has also become directly involved in efforts to resolve the matter. The Ministry disclosed that he has held discussions with Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, since the issue emerged.
Government officials believe Partey’s participation carries significance beyond football, given the global attention surrounding the FIFA World Cup and Ghana’s representation on the international stage. “Mr. Partey’s selection for the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the significant national and global sporting considerations at stake,” the release stated.
The statement therefore urged Canadian authorities to reverse the decision, arguing that such a move would be consistent with “fairness and cardinal principles of common law.”
The Ministry emphasized that Ghana’s actions should not be interpreted as hostility toward Canada. Instead, officials reiterated their commitment to constructive engagement and respect for the rule of law. “Ghana remains committed to constructive engagements with Canadian authorities and to upholding the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence,” the statement added.
The government concluded by highlighting the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries and expressing confidence that ongoing discussions could produce a mutually acceptable outcome.
It said Ghana values its historic friendship with Canada and remains hopeful that dialogue and cooperation will lead to an amicable and timely resolution of the dispute as the Black Stars continue their World Cup campaign.
READ ALSO: Black Sherif Ex-Manager Snap C Held in Major Fraud Probe
