Government of Ghana has intensified efforts to secure a visa for Thomas Partey ahead of the Black Stars’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa insisting that every available diplomatic avenue is being explored.
With Ghana set to begin their campaign against Panama on Wednesday, June 17, officials are racing against time to resolve an issue that threatens to deprive the national team of one of its most influential players.
Speaking on the matter, Mr Ablakwa acknowledged the urgency of the situation but remained optimistic about the chances of a positive outcome.
”We are using all diplomatic channels available to us and remain hopeful that this matter can be resolved before Ghana’s opening game.”
The dispute stems from the refusal of a Temporary Resident Visa by Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a decision that has prompted a formal diplomatic protest from the Ghanaian government.
Mr Ablakwa strongly criticised the move, describing the decision as “high-handed” and “extremely unfair”.
Canadian authorities reportedly based the refusal on ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. However, the Ghanaian government argues that the decision ignores a fundamental legal principle.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the midfielder has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and has not been convicted of any crime. He contends that denying the player entry before the conclusion of the legal process undermines the principle of presumption of innocence.
The minister said the decision effectively treats the player as guilty before any verdict has been reached, raising concerns about fairness and due process.
Beyond the legal arguments, Ghana is also concerned about the sporting implications of Partey’s absence. The midfielder is regarded as one of the most important members of the Black Stars squad and a central figure in the team’s plans for the tournament.
Mr Ablakwa stressed that losing a player of Partey’s quality would be a significant setback as Ghana seeks to make a strong start to its World Cup campaign.
As part of efforts to resolve the issue, the Foreign Affairs Minister has held discussions with Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat.
While FIFA has indicated that immigration and visa matters remain the responsibility of host countries and fall outside its jurisdiction, Ghana’s Foreign Ministry continues to pursue a rapid administrative review of the decision and is also considering possible legal options.
The government hopes those efforts will allow Partey to join the national team camp before the clash with Panama.
With the World Cup opener fast approaching, Ghana’s diplomatic push has entered a critical phase as officials seek a breakthrough that could ensure one of the team’s key players is available for the start of the tournament.
