President Akufo-Addo has emphasized the crucial role of all branches of government in consolidating democratic progress in Ghana.
He has urged collective efforts to maintain and enhance the democratic gains achieved since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1993.
During a meeting with Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who presented the commemorative Democracy Cup trophy, President Akufo-Addo underscored the need for unity and collaboration across the nation to fortify Ghana’s democratic institutions.
“I believe it is imperative that we do not take for granted the democratic strides we have made since 1993,” remarked President Akufo-Addo.
“It is incumbent upon all of us—government, parliament, and the judiciary—to work together diligently to advance our democratic principles.”
The President praised the Parliament of Ghana for launching the inaugural “Democracy Cup” competition, marking 30 years of Parliamentary Democracy. He expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting its potential to deepen the culture of democracy among Ghanaians.
“I fully endorse and support this noble initiative, which promises to entrench democratic values in our society,” President Akufo-Addo affirmed. “I look forward to its continued success and hope it becomes a fixture in our national calendar for years to come.”
Speaker Alban Bagbin utilized the occasion to appeal to Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to prioritize peace and unity as the country approaches the 2024 elections. He highlighted the Democracy Cup as a means to engage young people in understanding and appreciating the essence of democracy through sports, particularly football.
“The objective of the Democracy Cup is to use football as a platform to involve our youth in the 30th anniversary celebrations and to foster a deeper understanding of democracy,” Speaker Bagbin explained. “This initiative aims to promote peace and unity among our youth, crucial elements as we navigate towards the upcoming elections in December.”
The inaugural Democracy Cup match is scheduled to feature a showdown between Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday, July 17th. Additionally, a special curtain raiser match between ex-Black Stars players and Members of Parliament is set to precede the main event.
Notable attendees at the event included Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, Secretary to the President Nana Bediatuo Asante, Clerk to Parliament Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, and other dignitaries from both the Presidency and Parliament.
The Democracy Cup initiative aims not only to celebrate Ghana’s democratic journey but also to instill democratic values and principles among the youth, ensuring a future generation committed to the ideals of peace, unity, and democratic governance.