Kofi Adams slams Canada over Thomas Partey visa denial
Ghana’s government has condemned Canada’s decision to deny Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey entry clearance ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the action as unfair, excessive and a breach of the principle of presumption of innocence.
Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams said Ghana has officially lodged a protest after Canadian immigration authorities refused the player’s visa for the Group H opener against Panama on June 17.
Ghana Lodged Protest After Visa Rejection
Speaking to TV3 on Friday, June 12, 2026, Mr. Adams disclosed that the Ghana World Cup delegation applied for visas for all players and officials who required permits for Canada, one of three host nations for the tournament.
“We applied for visas for our players and officials who needed them. We submitted the application in the United Kingdom, specifically in London. We were informed the visas would be processed and issued for us in America,” he explained.
The Black Stars had already arrived at their training base in Boston when the visa process continued. According to the Minister, Partey was asked to attend the Canadian Embassy to complete biometric procedures as part of the application.
Reason Cited Was UK Criminal Charges
Mr. Adams revealed that Ghanaian officials received notification in the evening of June 11, US time, confirming the application had been rejected.
“And in the evening of yesterday, American time, we got communication that he has been denied an entry visa. And the reason is that he’s been charged with some counts of rape and sexual abuse in the United Kingdom,” the Minister stated.
He expressed disappointment over the grounds for refusal, arguing that the decision was made despite the case still being before the UK courts. The Minister stressed that denying a player entry on that basis violates the legal principle that a person is innocent until proven guilty.
Ghana will now assess its options as it prepares for the Panama fixture, with the absence of Partey a major blow to coach Otto Addo’s midfield plans for World Cup 2026.
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