The government of Ghana has formally protested Canada’s decision to deny a temporary residence application submitted by Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued on June 13, 2026, the government described the decision as “high-handed and extremely unfair” and expressed “strong reservations” over the refusal.
Canadian immigration authorities rejected Partey’s application on grounds of inadmissibility under paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
The government noted that the decision was based on pending criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom that have not resulted in a conviction or any judicial finding of guilt.
“The decision is understood to be based on pending criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom that have not resulted in any conviction or judicial finding of guilt,” the statement said.
Ghana argued that the refusal undermines the principle of presumption of innocence, which it described as a fundamental pillar of justice in democratic societies.
“The Government of Ghana reaffirms the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies,” the statement added.
While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign authority to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana questioned the fairness of relying on unresolved legal proceedings in making such a determination.
“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 government stated.
The government disclosed that it has already initiated diplomatic engagements with Canadian authorities to challenge the decision.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on June 11, it dispatched an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada and requested a review of the decision.
“The note also requested that Canada reviews its unfortunate decision,” the statement said.
Ghana further indicated that it is prepared to pursue all available diplomatic, legal and administrative avenues to secure what it described as a fair consideration of the player’s case.
“The Government of Ghana is determined to explore and pursue all available diplomatic, legal and administrative remedies under Canadian and international law, including, where appropriate, judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada, to ensure full and fair consideration of all relevant legal and factual issues in accordance with due process,” the statement concluded.
The development comes as Ghana prepares for its participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Partey considered one of the key figures in the Black Stars squad.
The outcome of the diplomatic efforts could have significant implications for the player’s availability during the tournament.
Meanwhile, Ghana will kick off their FIFA World Cup campaign on Wednesday, June 17, in Toronto, with a Group L clash against Panama.
