The Government of the Republic of Ghana expresses serious concerns in response to Canada’s ruthless and incredibly unfair decision to deny Mr. Thomas Teye Parley, a Ghanaian national and important member of Ghana’s senior national football team, the Black Stars, who are competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, his request for temporary residence.
We have been notified that the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reached this conclusion based on inadmissibility under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), paragraph A36(1)(c).
The ruling is thought to be based on ongoing criminal cases in the UK that have not led to a guilty verdict or conviction.
The Ghanaian government upholds the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of justice and due process in democracies.
Ghana believes that relying on unsubstantiated accusations in the absence of a court ruling raises basic issues of justice and proportionality, while acknowledging Canada’s sovereign right to implement its immigration laws.
Ghana is therefore actively pursuing diplomatic discussions on this issue with the pertinent Canadian authorities.
The Ghanaian Foreign Ministry sent Global Affairs Canada an official complaint note on June 1, 2026. Additionally, the note asked Canada to reconsider its regrettable choice.
The Ghanaian government is obligated to investigate and pursue all available diplomatic, legal, and administrative remedies under Canadian and international law, including, where applicable, judicial review before the Federal Court of Canada, to ensure full and fair consideration of all relevant legal and factual issues in accordance with due process.
Since learning of this, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has also been in contact with Canadian officials, particularly Her Excellency Myriam Montrat, the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana.
The government asks Canada to reverse its decision in the interest of justice and fundamental common law principles, citing Mr. Party’s selection for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup and the important national and international sporting issues at stake.
Ghana is still dedicated to maintaining the rule of law, human rights, and the presumption of innocence as well as to positive interactions with Canadian authorities.
The Ghanaian government values our long-standing good bilateral ties with Canada and expects that diplomatic reconciliation within the framework of our historically friendly and cordial customs would result in a prompt and amicable resolution.
May the lovely game of football continue to uphold its reputation for bringing people together, creating enduring friendships, adhering to the rules, and encouraging fair play on and off the pitch.
Foreign Ministry’s Statement Below:
Source: newsthemegh.com