The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced that a court hearing regarding the visa denial for Black Stars Deputy Captain, Thomas Partey, is scheduled for today, Tuesday, June 16.
The hearing is anticipated to occur at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
In an interview on Monday, June 15, the Minister revealed that Partey’s legal team has explored various options to contest the decision that impacts the player’s entry into Canada.
The Minister stated that all requisite legal documents have been submitted in preparation for the hearing.
“The court hearing is set on Tuesday, June 16 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time. All documentation has been filed, so the hearing will take place on Tuesday morning,” he remarked.
He elaborated that the legal action currently before the court consists of three distinct applications, each designed to facilitate the player’s involvement in the international tournament.
These applications include: a request for a review, a request for a specific restricted entry, and a request for a complete reconsideration of the decision made by Canada.
“We are quite optimistic because the legal actions taken are on three fronts: seeking a review, requesting a specific restricted entry, and also applying for a complete reconsideration,” he noted.
The Minister conveyed his belief that the court proceedings would enable the player’s participation, allowing Ghana to include one of its key players in the competition.
He mentioned that the various legal strategies enhance the likelihood of achieving a favorable result that would permit the Villarreal midfielder to reunite with his teammates.
“Thus, even if we do not succeed with two or all three applications, we are likely to secure at least one or two approvals, which would certainly provide him the opportunity to enter Canada and join his colleagues in performing at his best,” the Minister concluded.
He emphasized the government’s dedication to facilitating Partey’s participation in the tournament, highlighting that both legal and diplomatic measures are currently in progress.
The situation regarding Thomas Partey’s eligibility has garnered considerable public interest, with government officials, football authorities, and legal representatives collaborating to address the issue before Ghana’s forthcoming matches.
