Ghana has taken steps to secure Thomas Partey’s participation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Canada refused his temporary residence application.

In a statement, the Government noted that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) arrived at its decision on grounds of inadmissibility under paragraph A36(1)(c) of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).

The statement said the decision appears to be based on pending criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom that have not resulted in any conviction or judicial finding of guilt.

The Government of Ghana reaffirmed the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of justice and due process in democratic societies.

"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."

Ghana has pursued active diplomatic engagement with the relevant Canadian authorities on the matter.

On June 11, 2026, the Foreign Ministry of Ghana dispatched an official note of protest to Global Affairs Canada requesting that Canada review its decision.

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 Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has additionally held talks with Canadian officials, including the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat, since the matter came to his attention.

The Government further noted Mr Partey’s selection for the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the significant national and global sporting considerations at stake, and urged Canada to rescind its decision in the interest of fairness and the cardinal principles of common law.

Ghana expressed its commitment to constructive engagement with Canadian authorities and to upholding the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence.

"The Government of Ghana cherishes our longstanding excellent bilateral relations with Canada and hopes that diplomatic rapprochement within the context of our historically cordial and friendly traditions would lead to an amicable resolution in a timely manner.

"May the beautiful game of football continue to live up to its reputation of uniting nations, forging lasting bonds of friendship, playing by the rules, and promoting fair play both on and off the field."