The Government of Ghana has strongly criticized Canada’s decision to deny a visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey, describing the move as “high-handed and extremely unfair” ahead of Ghana’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Partey, one of Ghana’s most experienced players, will miss the Black Stars’ Group L opener against Panama in Toronto after Canadian authorities rejected his visa application. The decision has sparked diplomatic tensions between the two countries and raised concerns among football fans across Ghana.
According to Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visa refusal appears to be linked to ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. The midfielder has consistently denied all allegations against him and has pleaded not guilty.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ghanaian government emphasized the principle of the presumption of innocence and questioned the fairness of relying on unresolved legal allegations when making immigration decisions.
“While respecting Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana considers that reliance on unproven charges in the absence of a judicial determination raises fundamental questions of fairness and proportionality,” the ministry stated.
The government has reportedly submitted an official diplomatic protest to Canadian authorities and is seeking a review of the decision. Officials have also indicated that Ghana may explore additional legal and diplomatic avenues to challenge the visa refusal.
Canada, however, has defended its position. Immigration officials stated that hosting major international events does not alter the country’s immigration policies and that every applicant is assessed individually according to Canadian law.
FIFA has also clarified that it does not have authority over visa decisions made by host nations and cannot intervene in immigration matters.
Despite the setback, Partey remains with the Ghana squad in the United States and is expected to be available for Ghana’s subsequent World Cup matches against England and Croatia, which will be played on American soil.
The controversy comes at a crucial moment for the Black Stars as they prepare to compete on football’s biggest stage. Many supporters view Partey’s absence as a significant blow to Ghana’s chances against Panama, given his experience and leadership in midfield.
As diplomatic discussions continue, Ghanaian football fans will be hoping for a positive resolution while rallying behind the national team in its quest for World Cup success.
Stay with My Jacob Narh TV Online for continuing updates on the Black Stars and Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
