The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) received the 2025 Democracy Cup trophy in Accra from Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, the Clerk to Parliament.
Before this year’s annual football game, a series of ceremonial visits will begin with the symbolic presentation.
Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing and other senior commanders accepted the trophy during the presentation ceremony today in Accra on behalf of Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the Chief of Defense Staff.
Rear Admiral Bessing praised the initiative and emphasized its value in promoting national unity while speaking on behalf of the military.
“As neutral players in our democratic dispensation, the Armed Forces warmly welcome this agenda, which has been established by our legislative arm of government under the leadership of the Right Honourable Speaker.”
“We assure you that on 5th September, we shall mobilise our personnel in their numbers to grace this significant occasion,” he said.
He added that, even in areas of violence, football has long served as a potent unifying force.
“Ghana is a football nation; the sport is sometimes employed as a means of reconciliation between feuding parties. This initiative could also help reduce ethnic tensions in certain parts of northern Ghana,” he continued.
With the support of the President, the Speaker of Parliament, and the Chief Justice, Mr. Djietror clarified, the Democracy Cup has now established itself as a regular event on the national calendar.
“The Democracy Cup has been accepted as one of our national events. It is now an important fixture on the calendar, a reminder of the unity we must embrace as a nation every year,” he stated.
He saw the contest as a representation of the growth and unity of the country. He emphasized that it reflects the idea of unity of purpose, which is a crucial attribute for creating, growing, and attaining excellence as a country.
Accra Hearts of Oak and Accra Great Olympics will square off in the second Democracy Cup, which is set for September 5 at the University of Ghana Stadium. Important governmental agencies, such as the Chief Justice, the Electoral Commission, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Presidency, will receive the trophy prior to the game.
After last year’s scheduled presentation to the Armed Forces was postponed, this year’s visits started with the Ministry of Defense.
“Last year, we pencilled in this visit, but unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, it did not materialise. This year, we thought it proper to begin here,” Mr. Djietror explained.
The Democracy Cup, which was first introduced in 2024, is a component of a larger initiative to use football as a vehicle for civic education and national cohesion.
The effort has been spearheaded by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban Bagbin, who has acknowledged the importance of sport in fostering a deeper comprehension of Ghana’s democratic system.
To provide the best facilities, more security, and a better experience for players, fans, and spectators alike, the game will now take place at the University of Ghana Stadium instead of the Accra Sports Stadium.
Source: newsthemegh.com