Midfielder Thomas Partey has been forced to stay in the United States after failing to acquire an entry visa to Canada for Ghana’s World Cup opener against Panama.
Partey was refused visa by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada over allegations of rape and sexual assault.
The Vilarreal man has been accused of seven counts of rape and sexual assault by multiple women. Partey has denied all charges.However, according to Canada’s immigration rule, no person will be admitted to their country if he/she has a pending court case.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation have been engaging their Canadian counterparts over a resolution as the player has not been found guilty and convicted for any of the charges.
“We are using all diplomatic channels available to us and remain hopeful that this matter can be resolved before Ghana’s opening game,” said Honourable Okudzato Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Despite diplomatic talks between the two nations, only 25 Black Stars players travelled to Toronto on Monday.
With about 48 hours left for the game against Panama, the various parties are expected to find a solution to the problem.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars will hold a final training session at the BMO Field in Toronto before their crucial encounter with Panama.Ghana will be hoping to get off to a winning start against the group’s less-fancied side.
Meanwhile, in the group’s other match, England will face 2018 runners-up Croatia.
