Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has launched the inaugural Democracy Cup in a momentous celebration of Ghana’s democratic strides.
This landmark football event, scheduled for July 5, 2024, at Accra Sports Stadium, will feature a high-stakes match between Premier League giants Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko.
The event promises a thrilling lineup, including parliamentary members taking on former Black Stars players.
The winner of the main match will earn a prestigious opportunity to compete against American club DC United in Washington later this year.
Speaker Bagbin underscored the significance of the Democracy Cup, proposing its establishment as an annual tradition to highlight the intertwining roles of sport and democracy in Ghana’s national fabric.
“This initiative solidifies our commitment to fortifying Ghana’s democracy,” he remarked passionately.
He emphasised the event’s potential to promote both democratic values and national unity.
Acknowledging the historic participation of Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko, Speaker Bagbin, a devoted Asante Kotoko supporter, expressed gratitude and lauded their storied legacies.
He further pledged future editions would incorporate additional Ghanaian teams, expanding the Cup’s reach and impact.
Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh in his address advocated for sustained support for retired athletes who have elevated the nation’s sporting profile.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minority Whip Ahmed Ibrahim highlighted the urgent need for improved sports infrastructure and stadium management to nurture burgeoning talent.
Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, conveyed governmental support for Parliament’s innovative approach to celebrating its anniversary through sport. His statement, read on his behalf, affirmed his commitment to enhancing fitness levels among Parliamentarians and staff through equipment donations.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku echoed support for the Democracy Cup, applauding Speaker Bagbin for spotlighting the sport’s role in advancing democratic ideals. He called for increased investment in Ghana’s sports infrastructure to sustain momentum beyond this landmark event.
Delali Anku-Adiamah, Managing Director of Accra Hearts of Oak, endorsed establishing the Democracy Cup as a permanent fixture, emphasizing its pivotal role in commemorating Ghana’s democratic achievements. Abraham Antwi, representing Kumasi Asante Kotoko, injected humour by predicting a third victory over Accra Hearts of Oak this season, reinforcing his club’s enthusiastic backing for the Democracy Cup.
The event, which aims to celebrate Ghana’s democratic journey while fostering national unity and pride through sport, is poised to attract sports enthusiasts and political leaders alike.
As Parliament marks this significant milestone, the Democracy Cup promises a unique convergence of athleticism and democratic spirit.
Noteworthy attendees included retired football luminaries such as Stephen Appiah, John Mensah, and other seasoned sports personalities, underscoring the event’s broad appeal and cultural significance..