ACCRA – The government of Ghana announced on Saturday its intent to take legal action against Canada following the "high-handed and extremely unfair" denial of a visa for midfielder Thomas Partey. This decision comes as Partey awaits a rape trial in London, which has raised concerns regarding the presumption of innocence.
Thomas Partey, 32, recently returned to the Ghana men's national team base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, after being denied entry to Canada for an upcoming match against Panama in Toronto, scheduled for Wednesday. The midfielder has pleaded not guilty to several allegations of rape tied to his time at English club Arsenal between 2020 and 2025 and is expected to face trial in November or later.
The Ghanaian government maintains that the fundamental legal principle of presumption of innocence must be honored. This view was similarly echoed by Ghana's coach Carlos Queiroz during the selection of Partey for the World Cup squad. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement asserting that while it respects Canada's rights to enforce its immigration laws, using unproven charges without a judicial decision raises significant questions of fairness and proportionality.
In response to the situation, Ghana's government stated it has initiated active diplomatic engagements with relevant Canadian authorities regarding the visa denial. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada responded on Friday, emphasizing that its decisions are made on a case-by-case basis and asserting that major events, such as the FIFA World Cup, do not alter Canadian immigration laws.
The Canadian statement highlighted the country's commitment to hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup while ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. Each individual seeking entry to Canada is assessed according to the applicable laws and facts, with the process being unchanged even in light of major international events.
Despite the visa issue, Partey is expected to participate when Ghana plays against England on June 23 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, followed by their final group play match against Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia. Ghana’s government has formally protested by issuing an "official note of protest" to Global Affairs Canada, requesting that the decision be reconsidered.
Furthermore, Ghana is exploring all diplomatic, legal, and administrative options under Canadian and international law to have the visa denial overturned. This includes, if deemed necessary, a judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada to ensure thorough consideration of all relevant legal and factual aspects in accordance with due process.
Ghana’s officials have noted the significant national and global sports implications surrounding Partey’s selection for the FIFA World Cup and are urging Canada to reverse its decision based on fairness and established common law principles.
Partey’s legal troubles have intensified, with new allegations surfacing since the original charges became public. In March, his lawyer announced that Partey intends to plead not guilty to two additional charges of rape concerning an incident allegedly occurring in December 2020, further complicating his legal circumstances as he faces separate charges related to two other women.
