Ghana intensifies diplomatic push to secure Thomas Partey's World Cup visa as Foreign Minister remains hopeful

The Government of Ghana has intensified efforts to secure a Canadian 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 channel is being pursued.

With Ghana due to begin their Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on Wednesday, government officials are working around the clock to resolve the issue that could deprive the Black Stars of one of their most experienced players.

Speaking on the matter, Ablakwa acknowledged the urgency of the situation but expressed confidence that a solution could still be reached before kick-off.

"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 dispute stems from the refusal of a Temporary Resident Visa by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), a decision that prompted Ghana to lodge a formal diplomatic protest.

Canadian authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific reasons for the refusal. However, the Ghanaian government says it understands the decision is linked to Partey's ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom.

The former Arsenal midfielder is currently standing trial on multiple rape charges, all of which he has denied through his legal representatives. The case remains before the courts, and no verdict has been reached.

Ablakwa criticised Canada's decision, describing it as "high-handed" and "extremely unfair."

He argued that refusing Partey entry before the conclusion of the legal process undermines the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence.

According to the minister, the midfielder has pleaded not guilty and has not been convicted of any offence, making the decision both premature and unjustified.

The government also believes Partey's absence would significantly weaken Ghana's chances of making a strong start to the tournament.

Widely regarded as one of the team's key players, the 33-year-old is expected to play a central role in Carlos Queiroz's plans for the World Cup.

As part of efforts to resolve the impasse, Ablakwa has held discussions with Canadian officials, including Canada's High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pursuing a rapid administrative review of the visa refusal while also exploring legal remedies. A court hearing challenging the decision is also underway as Ghana seeks to overturn the refusal before Wednesday's match.

Although FIFA has maintained that immigration and visa decisions fall solely within the jurisdiction of host governments, Ghana remains hopeful that diplomatic engagement and legal action will result in a favourable outcome.

Should the appeal succeed, Partey would be cleared to join the Black Stars in Toronto ahead of their World Cup opener against Panama before Ghana face England and Croatia in their remaining Group L fixtures.