The government of Ghana has lodged a formal protest with Canada over the refusal of a visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey, describing the decision as “extremely unfair” and based on unproven allegations.

In a statement issued Saturday, the foreign ministry said Canadian authorities denied Partey a temporary residence permit under provisions of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, citing inadmissibility linked to ongoing criminal proceedings in theUnited Kingdom.

Ghana argued that the case has not resulted in any conviction and stressed the principle of the presumption of innocence.

“Reliance on unproven charges in the absence of a judicial determination raises fundamental questions of fairness and proportionality,” the ministry said.

The government confirmed it had sent a formal note of protest to Global Affairs Canada on 11 June, urging a review of the decision.

Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has also engaged Canadian officials, including the High Commissioner to Ghana, in efforts to resolve the issue.

The ministry said Ghana is exploring “all available diplomatic, legal and administrative remedies,” including the possibility of a judicial review before Canada’s Federal Court.

Partey is a key member of Ghana’s national team and has been selected for the upcomingFIFA World Cup, the statement noted, adding that the decision carries “significant national and global sporting considerations.”

While acknowledging Canada’s sovereign right to enforce its immigration laws, Ghana urged authorities to rescind the decision “in the interest of fairness and the cardinal principles of common law.”

Ghana also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong bilateral ties with Canada and expressed hope for an amicable resolution.

The Canadian immigration agency, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, has not publicly commented on the case.