Thomas Partey Is Innocent Until Proven Guilty” — Sannie Daara Questions Canada’s Visa Decision

Sports journalist and football administrator Ibrahim Sannie Daara has defended Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey amid ongoing legal proceedings, insisting that the Black Stars star deserves to be treated as innocent until proven guilty.

Daara’s comments came after reports emerged that Partey had been denied entry into Canada ahead of Ghana’s World Cup campaign.

While acknowledging Canada’s right to enforce its immigration laws, Daara questioned the fairness of the decision, arguing that no court has found the footballer guilty of any offence.

“I was very, very surprised,” Daara told Kafui Dey. “You are innocent until the court says you are guilty. If the person is innocent, please give him that innocence until otherwise.”

The former GFA communications chief argued that the alleged offences were not committed in Canada and that Partey has consistently cooperated with legal authorities.

“The person still has presented himself before the law courts and no court of competent jurisdiction has found him guilty,” he said.

Daara warned that denying athletes opportunities before legal cases are concluded could create lasting damage even if they are eventually cleared.

He pointed to the case of former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy, who was acquitted after facing multiple allegations.

“He lost his income, his reputation is battered, his confidence is gone,” Daara said. “The damage cannot be repaired.”

According to Daara, football authorities and governments should be careful not to create the perception that an accused individual has already been judged before a court reaches a verdict.

“It is natural justice,” he said. “Let the person go through the process.”

He also welcomed diplomatic efforts by Ghanaian authorities and urged continued engagement with Canadian officials.

“I think they should continue to engage the Canadian authorities in ensuring that at least they give him the visa,” Daara added.