Bagbin commends sponsors, announces ‘Democracy School of Excellence’ initiative

The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt Hon.Honourable Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has lauded organizers and sponsors of the 2025 Democracy Cup for their commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and unity through football.

Speaking at a cocktail event held in honour of the tournament’s sponsors, the Speaker praised the success of the Democracy Cup and revealed that the initiative has gained international attention. According to him, several countries, including South Africa, Germany, and the United Kingdom, have expressed interest in hosting future editions of the competition.

Through the efforts of the office of the Speaker, and Vanivo Media Limited have secured a partnership with English football club Sunderland A. F. C

“The Democracy Cup is here to stay,” Speaker Bagbin declared, calling for the expansion of the tournament to an international level that includes other African nations.

As part of efforts to sustain the initiative, the Speaker announced plans to establish the Democracy School of Excellence, an educational institution aimed at nurturing civic values, discipline, and leadership among the youth. He emphasized the power of football as a unifying tool that transcends political and social divides, promoting peace and democratic values across the continent.

Speaker Bagbin expressed gratitude to key sponsors, including the KGL Ghana Group, for their support, and encouraged more corporate bodies to partner with Parliament in advancing the objectives of the Democracy Cup initiative.

“Democracy Cup”

The current Speaker of Parliament has also initiated the “Democracy Cup” which is a football match in Ghana, established to commemorate the country’s parliamentary democracy. The most recent tournament was held in September 2025, with Accra Hearts of Oak defeating Accra Great Olympics 1-0 to win the trophy. This annual event features high-profile teams and has historically involved matches between top Ghanaian clubs, with the winner sometimes playing against a U.S.-based opponent.

About the Democracy Cup

Purpose: The cup was instituted by the Parliament of Ghana to celebrate 30 years of parliamentary democracy under the Fourth Republic.

Matches: It has featured matches between prominent Ghanaian football clubs, such as Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak, and Accra Hearts of Oak and Accra Great Olympics.

Prize: The winner of the cup sometimes gets the opportunity to play against a U.S.-based team, like in the first edition against D.C. United.

Significance: The event aims to blend the passion of sport with civic education and reinforce values of unity and national pride.

2025 Democracy Cup

Finalists: Accra Hearts of Oak and Accra Great Olympics.

Winner: Accra Hearts of Oak, who won the match 1-0.

Goal scorer: Kofi Asmah scored the winning goal in the 70th minute.

Location: University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

Officials: The match was officiated by young referees as part of the FA’s “Catch Them Young” policy.