Authorities should have anticipated Partey's visa issues — Bosome Freho MP

The Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, has criticised the handling of travel arrangements for Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey, arguing that authorities should have anticipated possible visa difficulties ahead of Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking on Channel One TV on Saturday, June 13, Asafo-Adjei Ayeh said the circumstances surrounding the player were well known and should have prompted officials to take proactive measures to avoid any complications.

“One of our star players has had issues with the UK, from an international issue being dragged all over, and this very important player in our team has been selected to play. As a country, we should have anticipated something like this,” he stated.

The lawmaker expressed disappointment over reports that Canadian authorities had declined Partey’s visa application, a development that is expected to rule the Arsenal midfielder out of Ghana’s Group L fixture against Panama in Toronto on June 17, 2026.

According to Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, while he would not describe the situation as negligence, it highlighted the need for greater foresight and planning by officials responsible for coordinating international assignments involving national team players.

Ghana protests Canada's refusal of Thomas Partey's visa

He warned that Partey’s absence could affect Ghana’s prospects in the tournament and urged authorities to learn from the incident to prevent similar setbacks in future.

The Bosome Freho MP maintained that the player’s importance to the national team, coupled with issues that could potentially affect international travel, should have prompted additional efforts to ensure a smooth visa process.

The visa rejection has sparked concern among football fans and officials, with the Government of Ghana subsequently lodging a formal protest over the decision by Canadian authorities.

Partey, a key figure for both the Black Stars and Arsenal F.C., was expected to play a significant role in Ghana’s campaign at the tournament.

His expected absence from the Panama clash has intensified debate over the circumstances that led to the visa setback.

MRA/EB

Meanwhile, watch as Joffery Nortey shares his career journey from comedy to content creation