Ghana has launched legal action against Canada’s decision to deny midfielder Thomas Partey entry into the country, with an emergency court hearing set to take place in Ottawa on Wednesday.
The move comes after Canadian authorities refused to grant a visa to the 33-year-old, leaving him unavailable for Ghana’s opening World Cup match against Panama in Toronto.
The visa refusal is linked to ongoing criminal proceedings involving Partey in the United Kingdom. The former Arsenal midfielder, now playing for Villarreal in Spain, has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The charges relate to allegations made by four women concerning incidents said to have occurred between 2020 and 2022. His trial is scheduled for next year.
Ghana’s government has strongly criticised Canada’s decision, describing it as unfair and excessive. Officials are seeking a court order that would allow Partey temporary entry into Canada so he can participate in the World Cup fixture. They are also requesting permission for the player to submit a new visa application.
The court hearing is scheduled for 14:00 BST (09:00 local time in Ottawa), although it remains uncertain how quickly a ruling will be delivered.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the government is pursuing both legal and diplomatic channels in an effort to secure a visa for the midfielder before the tournament progresses further.
In a statement provided to the BBC, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said that hosting major international events does not alter the country’s immigration rules.
Canadian authorities added that all applicants are assessed individually according to the facts of each case and the laws in force.
Partey has represented Ghana more than 50 times since making his international debut in 2016 and remains an important figure in the national team setup. Ahead of the tournament, Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz stated he had no concerns about selecting the experienced midfielder.
After facing Panama, Ghana’s remaining group-stage matches will be against England in Boston on 23 June and Croatia in Philadelphia on 27 June. The Black Stars could also find themselves returning to Canada for the knockout stage should they advance as Group L runners-up.