2026 World Cup: We will use every diplomatic means to get Thomas Partey to play against Panama - Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, says government is intensifying diplomatic efforts to secure a visa for midfielder Thomas Partey in time for the Black Stars’ opening 2026 World Cup match against Panama.

Partey, 33, has been denied entry by Canadian authorities over his ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom, where he faces allegations of sexual assault. He has denied the charges and has not been convicted.

Speaking on the issue, Ablakwa said every available diplomatic channel is being explored in a bid to overturn the decision before Ghana’s tournament opener.

"We are using all diplomatic channels available to us and remain hopeful that this matter can be resolved before Ghana’s opening game.”

The minister argued that excluding the midfielder at this stage undermines the principle of presumption of innocence, stressing that Partey should not be treated as guilty while legal proceedings are still ongoing.

He further noted that the decision raises broader questions about fairness and due process, particularly in cases where no final verdict has been reached.

Beyond the legal dimension, Ghana’s concern also lies in the sporting implications. Partey is widely regarded as a key figure in the national team setup, with his absence seen as a potential setback to the Black Stars’ World Cup ambitions.

Ablakwa added that discussions have already been held with Canadian officials, including Canada’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, as part of ongoing efforts to resolve the matter swiftly.

While FIFA has indicated that visa and immigration decisions remain under the jurisdiction of host nations, Ghana’s Foreign Ministry says it is pursuing an administrative review and exploring possible legal options.

The government remains hopeful that the situation will be resolved in time for Partey to join the squad before the Panama fixture.

If the issue is not resolved in time, the midfielder is expected to miss the opening match but could still be available for Ghana’s Group L games against England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium and Croatia on June 27.