Parliament @30: Speaker Launches Democracy Cup to Climax Anniversary

As part of activities to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, the Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has inaugurated the Democracy Cup.

This special football event will be held on July 5, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium, featuring a marquee match between Premier League titans Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko.

Event highlights include Accra Hearts of Oak vs. Kumasi Asante Kotoko, Members of Parliament vs. Former Black Stars players and the ultimate winner of the main match will earn the opportunity to play against American club DC United in Washington later this year.

At the launch ceremony in Accra, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the significance of the Democracy Cup, proposing that it become an annual event to underscore the importance of sport in Ghana’s democratic and national life.

“This initiative is further evidence of our commitment to strengthening Ghana’s democracy,” he stated. “We want the Democracy Cup to be a regular fixture, promoting not only democracy but also the role of sport in our national life,” the Speaker said.

Mr Bagbin, a passionate supporter of Asante Kotoko, expressed his gratitude to both clubs for their participation and acknowledged their rich histories.

He also assured that future editions would involve other Ghanaian teams.

Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh in his remarks called for sustainable wellbeing support packages for retired sportsmen and women who have promoted the country.

On his part, the Deputy Minority Whip, Ahmed Ibrahim, criticized the poor state of sports pitches and called for better management of stadiums to nurture more talent.

Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif in a speech read on his behalf, voiced support for Parliament’s decision to celebrate its anniversary through sport.

He pledged to donate jerseys and footballs to all participating teams to improve the fitness levels of Members of Parliament and staff.

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Okraku, affirmed the GFA’s full backing for the match, praising Mr. Bagbin for highlighting the role of sport in promoting democratic values.

He also called for increased investment in Ghana’s sports infrastructure.

Accra Hearts of Oak’s Managing Director, Delali Anku-Adiamah in a good will message supported the Speaker’s vision for making the Democracy Cup a permanent fixture, underscoring its role in celebrating Ghana’s democratic achievements.

Kumasi Asante Kotoko Representative, Abraham Antwi, playfully predicted a third victory over Hearts of Oak this season, reaffirming the club’s support for the Democracy Cup.

The Democracy Cup not only celebrates Ghana’s democratic journey but also aims to reinforce the role of sport in fostering unity and national pride.

As Parliament celebrates its milestone, this event promises to bring together sports enthusiasts and political leaders in a unique celebration of democracy and athletic excellence.

Presence were most recent retired footballers including Stephen Appiah, John Mensah, John Paintsil, Agyeman Badu, Tony Bafour, Fatau Dawuda, and other season sports men and women.