Ghana's government has strongly criticized Canada's decision to deny Thomas Partey a visa for the World Cup match against Panama, calling it "high-handed and extremely unfair." The 32-year-old former Arsenal midfielder, now with Villarreal, faces allegations of rape and sexual assault in Britain, which he denies.
Ghana's Official Protest
Ghana's foreign ministry stated it understood the visa refusal was based on pending criminal proceedings in Britain. It has sent an official note of protest requesting Canada to review the decision. "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," the ministry said.
Partey's World Cup Status
Partey remains with the Ghana squad in Boston and is eligible to play in subsequent Group L matches against England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia. The visa denial only affects the match against Panama in Canada.
Canada's Response
A spokesperson for Canada's immigration, refugees and citizenship stated that hosting major events does not change immigration laws. "Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies," the spokesperson said.
FIFA's Stance
FIFA confirmed it was not involved in the immigration processes of host countries.
Other World Cup Immigration Issues
Partey's case is the latest immigration-related controversy at the World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The US recently refused entry to Somali referee Omar Artan, who was due to officiate. Artan urged fellow Somalis not to lose heart over the decision.
