Thomas Partey is set to feature for Ghana against England in a World Cup match on Tuesday in Boston, despite facing multiple rape charges. The Football Association has remained noncommittal on whether England players will shake hands with the former Arsenal midfielder during the pre-match ceremony, leaving the decision to individual players such as Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who are former teammates of Partey.
Partey's Legal Situation
Partey is scheduled to stand trial next year at Southwark Crown Court after being charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault last year. He was later charged with two additional counts of rape. Partey has denied all accusations, with his lawyer stating that he welcomes the chance to clear his name.
Visa Issues and Missed Game
Partey missed Ghana's opening World Cup match against Panama on Thursday due to a visa denial by Canadian authorities. The United States granted him a visa, allowing him to play in Boston. A Canadian judge rejected his visa appeal after it emerged that Partey had incorrectly answered 'No' to questions about criminal charges on his application, despite his ongoing rape case. This sparked political backlash in Ghana, with critics blaming the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for the oversight.
Ghana's Response
Ghana's foreign ministry condemned Canada's decision as 'high-handed and extremely unfair,' but the court ruling revealed Partey's misrepresentation. Fiifi Boafo, a Ghanaian opposition politician, stated, 'All this while, we were being fed lies and inaccurate information... Heads must roll.' The GFA defended its role, saying it acted 'diligently, professionally, and in good faith.' Ghana's 1-0 win over Panama, with a 95th-minute goal by Caleb Yirenkyi, diverted some criticism.
Other Players Accused of Rape at World Cup
Partey is not the only player at the tournament facing rape allegations. Japan midfielder Kaishu Sano was arrested for gang-rape in 2024 but charges were dropped after he apologized and made a payment to the complainant. Morocco's Achraf Hakimi will face trial for alleged rape in 2023, which he denies, and he expressed relief that the trial will finally proceed.
FA's Stance and Player Reactions
The FA has not issued an official position on the handshake protocol, with legal experts advising against it to avoid prejudicing Partey's trial. England players are not expected to snub Partey, viewing the handshake as a mere formality. The match is part of the World Cup campaign, with both teams seeking crucial points.
