Ghana’s Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Adams, has asked Canadian authorities to reconsider their decision not to give Black Stars vice-captain Thomas Partey a visa. He said Ghana should be allowed to have its strongest team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Partey has not been able to play Ghana’s matches in Canada because border authorities refused him entry due to pending criminal charges in the United Kingdom.
Speaking to Citi Sports, Adams said Canada’s decision was “high-handed” and hoped the country would change its mind if Ghana return to Canada later in the tournament.
“We thought that the decision not to issue Thomas’ visa was a high-handed decision. We thought he could have been allowed to go in and partake,” Adams said.
“And I believe that the Canadians should be able to review that decision. And when a fresh application is made for them to decide in favour of Thomas Partey so he can do what he does best.”
The Minister said efforts are still being made to solve the problem if Ghana have to play in Canada during the knockout stage.
“We’ll do the best that we have to do. That’s the only thing that we can do,” he said.
“And we appeal to the Canadians in the spirit of their agreeing to host the World Cup to know that we are also a participating country and we want the best to represent us.”
He also said Partey has not been found guilty of any offence and is expected to stand trial in the UK next year.
“On this occasion, where especially the person has not been found guilty, they will temper… I wouldn’t even say justice with mercy, but they will make a decision in favour of Thomas Partey to be issued with a visa to enable him to do what, like I said, he does best.”
The midfielder denies all the allegations. He has been able to play in matches held in the United States, including Ghana’s recent group games.
