The Government of Ghana has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure a visa for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of Ghana’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, amid growing concerns over his availability for the tournament.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says the government is engaging all available diplomatic channels in a bid to reverse Canada’s decision to deny the player entry.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Monday, June 15, the Minister expressed cautious optimism that the situation could be resolved before Ghana’s first group match.

“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 controversy stems from a Temporary Resident Visa refusal by Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which reportedly cited ongoing legal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom.

The Black Stars midfielder is currently facing multiple rape charges in the UK but has pleaded not guilty and has not been convicted.

Mr Ablakwa criticised the decision, describing it as “high-handed” and “extremely unfair,” arguing that it undermines the legal principle of presumption of innocence.

He maintained that denying Partey entry on the basis of pending charges effectively prejudges the case before a final court ruling is delivered.

Beyond legal concerns, the government has also raised sporting implications, noting that Partey remains a key figure in Ghana’s World Cup squad and tactical setup.

His absence, officials say, would represent a major setback to Ghana’s ambitions at the tournament, particularly ahead of the opening fixture against Panama.

As part of ongoing negotiations, the Foreign Affairs Ministry has engaged Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat, in discussions aimed at resolving the matter.

While FIFA has indicated that visa and immigration decisions fall under the jurisdiction of host countries, Ghana is continuing its push for an administrative review and is exploring possible legal avenues.

The government hopes a resolution will allow the midfielder to join the national team camp before the start of the tournament as diplomatic efforts enter a decisive phase.