World Cup 2026: Ibrahim Sannie Daara urges Canada to reconsider Thomas Partey visa decision

Former Ghana Football Association Communications Director Ibrahim Sannie Daara has appealed to the Canadian government to reconsider its decision to deny Thomas Partey entry for Ghana's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the midfielder has not been convicted of any crime.

Speaking in an interview with Kafui Dey, Daara questioned the basis of Canada's decision, arguing that Partey was travelling solely to represent Ghana at the World Cup.

"He's in the country for sporting reasons. For those reasons, and for the reason that he's not been found guilty, I thought that the Canadian government could have looked at their laws in another way," Daara said.

He pointed out that the alleged offences did not take place in Canada and argued that refusing the midfielder entry before the conclusion of his trial undermines the principle of the presumption of innocence.

"He's there to play a global competition that the world is watching. Most importantly, he's not been found guilty. So it's just like you saying that he's already guilty before the decision is taken."

Daara also questioned whether the visa refusal could create the impression that the case had already been decided.

"It looks like you've even hanged him before the matter is decided."

The former GFA communications chief welcomed the Ghana government's intervention and urged officials to continue engaging with Canadian authorities.

"I've seen that the Foreign Minister of Ghana has made a pronouncement, and I think it's spot on. I think they should continue to engage the Canadian authorities in ensuring that at least they give him the visa, even if it's a 24-hour visa or a 48-hour visa. Let him play the game and go back to the United States."

He added that President John Dramani Mahama should also become directly involved if necessary.

"If it is necessary, the President of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, must also join in this case and fight for a Ghanaian who has not been convicted of any crime."

Daara also reflected on the personal toll the situation may be having on Partey.

"Naturally, as a human being, the allegations against him are really, really serious. Some way, somehow it has subdued him."

Despite the circumstances, Daara praised the midfielder's professionalism and leadership within the Black Stars camp.

"Despite all the things people have written in the press, sometimes vile messages on social media, he's kept his head high. He's continued, and I'm happy to see that even in the face of all these things, he's keeping his head high. He's training with the team. He's together with the captain, Jordan, leading the boys."

Partey has denied all the charges against him through his legal representatives, and the criminal proceedings in the United Kingdom remain ongoing.