Ghana launch legal challenge over Thomas Partey Canadian visa denial
Ghana’s government has launched a legal challenge against Canada’s decision to deny Thomas Partey a visa ahead of their World Cup opener against Panama.
The Villarreal midfielder is currently set to miss Wednesday’s match in Toronto as a direct result of the entry ban.
The 33-year-old’s immigration complications stem from ongoing criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom.
He has pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations from four women between 2020 and 2022, with a trial scheduled for next year.
Diplomatic and legal intervention
A judicial hearing to review the refusal is scheduled to take place at 14:00 BST in Ottawa.
Ghanaian officials have labelled the exclusion “high-handed and extremely unfair” while requesting temporary permission for the player to feature in the fixture.
The state has also formally asked the court to instruct Canadian immigration authorities to process a new visa application.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the country’s foreign minister, confirmed that diplomatic channels are simultaneously being explored to secure clearance for the former Arsenal man.
Canada holds firm on immigration laws
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada defended their strict stance regarding the high-profile tournament in a statement to the BBC.
“Canada has been consistent that hosting major events does not change Canada’s immigration laws.”
“Every person seeking to come to Canada is assessed individually, based on the facts available and the law that applies.”
World Cup campaign context
The experienced international has earned more than 50 caps since making his senior debut in June 2016.
Head coach Carlos Queiroz previously stated he had no reservations about selecting his star midfielder for the global showpiece.
Following the Panama clash, the Black Stars will travel to the United States to face England in Boston on 23 June and Croatia in Philadelphia four days later.
They could potentially return to Canadian soil for the last 32 if they secure a runners-up finish in Group L.