The Government of Ghana has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure a visa for midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the Black Stars’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as officials race against time to resolve a growing international dispute.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says the government is leaving no stone unturned in its bid to ensure the Arsenal star is available for selection, stressing that “all diplomatic channels” are currently being explored.
Partey has been denied entry into Canada after his application for a Temporary Resident Visa was rejected by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), citing ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom where the player faces multiple rape charges.
Speaking to journalists in Accra on Monday, June 15, Mr Ablakwa acknowledged the urgency of the situation but expressed cautious optimism that a breakthrough could be achieved before Ghana’s opening fixture.
“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.
The decision by Canadian authorities has sparked strong objections from the Ghanaian government, which has formally protested the move. Mr Ablakwa described the visa refusal as “high-handed” and “extremely unfair,” arguing that it undermines fundamental legal principles.
According to the minister, Partey has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has not been convicted of any offence. He insisted that denying the player entry at this stage effectively treats him as guilty before due process has been completed.
“The principle of presumption of innocence must be respected,” Mr Ablakwa emphasised, warning that the decision raises serious concerns about fairness and due process.
Beyond the legal arguments, Ghana is also grappling with the potential sporting consequences of Partey’s absence. The 32-year-old midfielder remains a central figure in the Black Stars squad, and his unavailability would represent a major setback as the team prepares for its World Cup campaign.
Ghana is scheduled to face Panama in its opening Group L match, with the fixture fast approaching. Officials fear that failure to resolve the visa impasse in time could significantly weaken the team’s chances of making a strong start.
As part of ongoing efforts, the Foreign Affairs Ministry has engaged Canadian authorities at multiple levels, including discussions with Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat. The government is also pursuing a rapid administrative review of the visa decision and considering possible legal options.
While FIFA has indicated that visa and immigration matters fall strictly under the jurisdiction of host nations, Ghana continues to press for a swift resolution that would allow Partey to join his teammates before kickoff.
With the clock ticking, Ghana’s diplomatic push has entered a critical phase, with hopes that sustained engagement will deliver a last-minute breakthrough and ensure one of the team’s key players is available for the tournament opener.
