Ghana has lodged a protest over Canada’s refusal to issue a visa for Thomas Partey, who is facing trial in Britain on rape charges. The decision was deemed “high-handed and extremely unfair” by Foreign Minister Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The note of protest also requested that Canada review its unfortunate decision. Partey, a key member of Ghana’s senior national team, has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
A trial is set for next year, allowing the 32-year-old midfielder to represent Ghana at the World Cup. However, he will miss Wednesday’s match in Toronto due to his legal issues.
FIFA confirmed that Partey would not be able to travel from Ghana’s team base camp in Boston to Canada for their opening match against Panama on June 17. He will be eligible to play in subsequent Group L games against England and Croatia, both taking place in the United States.