News Focus
- Canada denies visa to Thomas Partey for Ghana’s World Cup fixture against Panama
- Ghana’s foreign ministry sends official protest calling the decision “high-handed”
- Visa refusal linked to pending criminal charges in Britain which the midfielder denies
- Partey remains with the Black Stars squad in Boston and can play in US-based matches
- Canadian officials insist immigration laws apply equally during major tournaments
Ghana has strongly criticised Canada for refusing entry to midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of their World Cup group match against Panama. The government in Accra described the visa denial as high-handed and extremely unfair.
Officials believe the decision relates to ongoing criminal proceedings in Britain. The 32-year-old faces serious allegations including sexual assault, which he strongly denies.
The Ghana Football Association confirmed that Partey remains with the rest of the Black Stars squad in Boston. He will be available for selection for their remaining Group L fixtures against England and Croatia, both taking place in the United States.
Ghana’s foreign ministry has sent an official note of protest to Ottawa. The letter requests a review of the decision. It states that relying on unproven charges without a court ruling raises serious questions about fairness.
Canada’s immigration department responded by stating that hosting the World Cup does not change national laws. A spokesperson said every applicant receives individual assessment based on facts and the law.
FIFA confirmed it does not interfere with immigration processes in host nations. The governing body stated that border control remains the sovereign right of each country.
The incident follows another visa controversy earlier this week. Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States. He was due to officiate at the tournament but returned home and urged his countrymen to remain hopeful.