Ghana has formally objected to Canada’s decision to deny midfielder Thomas Partey entry into the country ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the move as unfair and launching diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a review of the ruling.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghanaian government said it had officially communicated its concerns to Canadian authorities after Partey’s application for temporary residence was rejected. The ministry, headed by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said it was pursuing diplomatic channels to challenge the decision.
According to the statement, Canadian authorities refused Partey’s application on the basis of inadmissibility provisions contained in Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
Ghana said it believes the decision is connected to ongoing criminal proceedings involving the player in the United Kingdom. However, the government stressed that the midfielder has not been convicted or found guilty by any court.
“The Government of Ghana reaffirms the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies,” part of the statement read.
The dispute comes just days before Ghana begin their World Cup campaign and has resulted in Partey being unavailable for the Black Stars’ opening match of the tournament.
While recognising Canada’s authority to apply and enforce its immigration laws, Ghana argued that basing such a decision on allegations that have not been resolved through the courts raises important questions about fairness and due process.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had already taken formal steps to register its concerns. It revealed that an official note of protest was delivered to Global Affairs Canada on 11 June, urging Canadian officials to revisit the decision and reconsider the player’s case.
The government also indicated that it is prepared to continue pursuing the matter through all available channels. According to the statement, Ghana is willing to explore diplomatic, legal and administrative options permitted under Canadian and international law in an effort to secure what it described as a comprehensive and fair review.
The development represents a significant setback for Ghana as the country prepares for its fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup. Partey’s absence from the opening fixture removes an experienced member of the squad at a crucial stage of the competition.
Ghana are scheduled to begin their Group L campaign against Panama on 17 June at BMO Field in Toronto. The Black Stars will then face England on 23 June before concluding their group-stage matches against Croatia on 27 June.
The government’s intervention highlights the importance Ghana attaches to the issue and signals its determination to challenge the decision through official diplomatic means. For now, however, Partey remains unable to enter Canada, leaving the Black Stars to start their World Cup journey without one of their key midfield players while efforts continue to overturn the ruling.
