The Convener of Justice For Thomas Partey, Dr. Solomon Owusu has announced planned mobilisation of Ghanaians in the United States for a peaceful demonstration at the Canadian Embassy in Washington DC over developments linked to the visa situation involving Thomas Partey.
He stated that organisers across Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia are coordinating efforts to register public dissatisfaction with how the matter has been handled and to push for reconsideration. He added that preparations began shortly after news was received on Friday, triggering immediate steps toward securing a police permit for the action.
Dr. Owusu indicated that the permit process is currently underway and approval is expected on Monday ahead of a possible demonstration on Tuesday. He explained that organisers are monitoring developments closely, stressing that the final decision on whether to proceed will depend on responses from the relevant authorities.
He noted that mobilisation has expanded across different Ghanaian groups in the United States, although final participation numbers remain uncertain due to ongoing coordination. The Mining Expert explained that the purpose of the planned action is to ensure that the issue receives attention at diplomatic level while lawful civic engagement is maintained. He added that discussions among organisers have focused on ensuring order, structure and compliance with local regulations governing public demonstrations.
“If we receive confirmation that approval has been granted today, then there will be no need for any demonstration. We are waiting on the authorities to guide the next step. If there is no positive outcome we proceed on Tuesday.”
Dr. Solomon Owusu
Dr. Owusu also addressed the legal context surrounding the matter, pointing to provisions within Canada’s immigration framework that allow discretionary consideration in visa related cases. He explained that such provisions include mechanisms that may permit review where travel clearance or judicial authorisation is involved.
He stated that advocacy efforts are centred on encouraging authorities to consider these options in the current situation. He disclosed that mobilisation efforts are being coordinated across multiple states to ensure a structured turnout if the demonstration proceeds. He added that organisers have been working with community leaders to streamline communication and logistics following the rapid developments in the case.
Additionally, Dr. Owusu confirmed that a formal petition has been prepared for submission at the Canadian Embassy during the planned demonstration. He explained that the document outlines the group’s position and requests direct engagement with diplomatic officials. He emphasised that all preparations are being undertaken within lawful limits to ensure a peaceful process.
Diplomatic Efforts And Civic Action Advance Amid Visa Talks
Dr. Owusu stated that while institutional processes are ongoing, civic mobilisation is advancing independently through diaspora networks. He explained that both diplomatic and public channels are operating simultaneously as stakeholders seek resolution through different approaches.
He revealed that he has held discussions with Kofi Adams and Okudzeto Ablakwa as part of consultations on the issue. He noted that these engagements are ongoing efforts by state officials while organisers pursue their own independent advocacy strategy. He added that communication remains open between various stakeholders involved in the matter.
Dr. Owusu emphasised that the planned demonstration is intended to communicate public sentiment in a structured and peaceful manner. He stated that logistical arrangements include coordinated messaging, sound systems and a brass band to support visibility during the action.
“We are going there fully organised with clear intent. The petition is ready and will be delivered directly at the embassy. We will remain there throughout the day until our message is received.”
Dr. Solomon Owusu
He indicated that the Canadian Ambassador in Washington DC, Mark Weissman, is expected to receive the petition directly from organisers during the demonstration. He explained that participants intend to ensure formal delivery at diplomatic level rather than through intermediaries.
Dr. Owusu also referenced provisions within Canada’s immigration system that allow conditional review mechanisms in specific visa related situations. He noted that such frameworks form part of the arguments being advanced in support of reconsideration.
He added that organisers believe these provisions are relevant to the current circumstances under discussion. He stated that solidarity actions are also expected in Ghana at diplomatic missions in support of the diaspora mobilisation. He explained that the coordinated effort reflects shared concern across different communities following recent developments.
Dr. Owusu reiterated that organisers will proceed with Tuesday’s demonstration if there is no change in the situation before then. He stressed that civic engagement and diplomatic dialogue are both continuing in parallel as efforts to resolve the matter advance.
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