- Okudzeto Ablakwa Leads Ghana’s Diplomatic Push to Clear Partey for World Cup Opener
The Government of Ghana has stepped up efforts to secure a visa for Thomas Partey ahead of the Black Stars’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as concerns grow over the midfielder’s availability for the crucial clash against Panama.
Ghana is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign on Wednesday, June 17, but uncertainty continues to surround Partey’s travel situation after Canadian immigration authorities reportedly denied him a Temporary Resident Visa.
Speaking on the matter, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed that the government is exploring every possible avenue to resolve the issue before kickoff.
“We are using all diplomatic channels available to us and remain hopeful that this matter can be resolved before Ghana’s opening game,” Ablakwa stated.
The visa controversy has triggered diplomatic engagement between Ghanaian officials and Canadian authorities, with the government formally protesting the decision taken by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
According to reports, the refusal was linked to ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. However, Ghanaian authorities argue that the decision unfairly disregards the legal principle of presumed innocence.
Ablakwa criticised the ruling, describing it as “high-handed” and “extremely unfair,” while insisting that the player has not been convicted of any offence and has pleaded not guilty to the allegations against him.
The minister stressed that denying the midfielder entry before the legal process concludes effectively treats him as guilty without a verdict being reached, raising concerns about fairness and due process.
Beyond the legal and diplomatic dimensions, the situation has also created major sporting concerns for the Black Stars ahead of the tournament. Partey remains one of Ghana’s most experienced and influential players, with his leadership and midfield presence expected to play a central role in the team’s World Cup ambitions.
Officials fear his absence could significantly weaken Ghana’s preparations and tactical setup for the opening fixture against Panama.
As part of ongoing negotiations, Ablakwa has reportedly held discussions with Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Myriam Montrat, in a bid to secure a rapid administrative review of the visa decision.
While FIFA has maintained that immigration and visa matters fall under the jurisdiction of host nations and remain outside the governing body’s control, Ghana’s Foreign Ministry continues to pursue both diplomatic and possible legal solutions.
With the countdown to Ghana’s World Cup opener rapidly winding down, pressure is mounting on officials to find a breakthrough that would allow Partey to join the Black Stars camp in time for the start of the tournament.
The coming days are expected to prove decisive as Ghana races against time to secure the availability of one of its key players for football’s biggest stage.
