Director-General of National Sports Authority NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah has stated that Ghana’s diplomatic response to the denial of a visa to Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey demonstrates the national significance of the matter. He said the development has moved beyond football and become an issue that touched on Ghana’s image and representation on the international stage.
Ankrah recounted that reports in sections of the British media suggested some England players could refuse to shake hands with Partey during the FIFA World Cup. He noted, however, that no official position was communicated by Team England before the Canadian decision emerged.
He described the visa refusal as unexpected, especially because Partey has recently travelled to countries including the United States and continues his professional career in Europe without restrictions. The NSA Director-General added that the midfielder has not been convicted of any offence and remained entitled to the legal principle of presumption of innocence.
The NSA Director pointed to the diplomatic protest lodged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. He indicated that the government has challenged the decision while seeking a review of the circumstances surrounding the refusal.
“It is not a Thomas Partey problem anymore. It is not a Black Stars problem anymore. It is a Ghana problem. He is representing Ghana. He’s playing for the Black Stars of Ghana; he’s representing Ghana.”
Ankrah argued that the issue carries national implications because the player has been selected to represent the country at the World Cup. He explained that the national flag and anthem would be associated with Ghana’s participation regardless of individual circumstances surrounding any player.
Furthermore, he noted that discussions surrounding the matter have spread across international football circles. He added that several commentators have welcomed Ghana’s swift response and regarded it as a legitimate defence of a citizen who has not been found guilty by any court.
Ankrah also observed that no similar case involving a high-profile footballer has come to mind so close to a major tournament. He said the timing of the decision, just days before Ghana’s match against Panama, has intensified public debate.
He indicated that technical preparations for the Panama fixture would continue while authorities pursue available diplomatic and legal channels. He added that any successful review could alter the player’s availability, although preparations are being made for all possible outcomes.
He further praised Partey’s conduct throughout the episode, saying the midfielder has remained composed and also restricted his comments to legal proceedings. The Director-General stressed that the player has consistently maintained his innocence and is entitled to the protections afforded by law until the judicial process reached a conclusion.
Visa Row Raises Questions Over Team Preparedness
The absence of Thomas Partey from Ghana’s opening World Cup fixture could influence the team’s preparations and leadership structure, according to the Director-General of the National Sports Authority. He said the full effect would only become clear when the Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama.
Ankrah noted that Partey is eligible for Ghana’s subsequent Group L matches against England and Croatia in the United States. He explained that psychological factors could become significant depending on how events surrounding the player unfolds during the tournament. He referenced the match between Ghana and England and the comments made by the British media.
“If indeed Thomas Partey is the captain on the day and the England players refuse to shake his hand, then the rest of the playing body would have to show solidarity.”
Ankrah highlighted the importance of experience within tournament squads. He pointed out that Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey and other senior figures have traditionally provided guidance to younger teammates during major competitions.
The Director-General also referred to the absence of several experienced players including Alexander Djiku and Mohammed Salisu through injury. He added that Andre Ayew was not part of the current squad, leaving the team with fewer seasoned figures ahead of the tournament.
Drawing comparisons with other national teams, he mentioned players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić whose experience often helps younger teammates settle into major competitions. He suggested that Partey could have played a similar mentoring role for Ghana’s emerging players.
Ankrah said the situation has deprived the Black Stars of an important source of leadership both on and off the pitch. Nevertheless, he indicated that the squad is focused on its preparations and continue to train normally.
Discussing the possibility of intervention through football governing bodie, the Director-General explained that FIFA has acknowledged the matter but has indicated that immigration decisions is within the authority of individual countries.
“FIFA also said that they cannot override rules, thus the country issues. FIFA basically said there is nothing we can do about it in its statement. However, it is important that we have shown support for the player.”
Ankrah disclosed that the Minister for Sports and Recreation is travelling to Rhode Island and is very engaged on the matter. He said government officials, team management and players have rallied behind Partey while awaiting the outcome of ongoing appeals.