Ghana's Vice President receives Democracy Cup, urges citizens to protect democratic gains

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang accepted the Democracy Cup on behalf of Ghana, urging citizens to actively safeguard the nation's democratic achievements through responsible participation. The cup, which utilizes football as a platform to encourage civic engagement and responsible citizenship, serves as a potent reminder that democracy, much like the sport itself, thrives on adherence to rules and fair competition.

Speaking in Accra, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted Ghana's more than three decades of constitutional rule, successful elections, and peaceful transfers of power, which have earned the country international respect. However, she cautioned against complacency, stressing that these gains should not be taken for granted. "Those entrusted with public office have a duty to serve the whole country and government will work for every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation or beliefs," she asserted.

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Those entrusted with public office have a duty to serve the whole country and government will work for every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation or beliefs.

The Vice President advocated for a political culture where citizens can express differing views without descending into animosity. "We must be able to disagree strongly without becoming enemies, to compete without destroying one another," she stated. She particularly emphasized the need to empower young people, providing them with ample opportunities to participate in national life, debate ideas, and make their voices heard without being drawn into violence or intolerance.

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We must be able to disagree strongly without becoming enemies, to compete without destroying one another.

Congratulating Parliament for sustaining the Democracy Cup initiative, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang thanked participating clubs, players, organizers, and sponsors. The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Mr. Kofi Adams, added that the government is leveraging sports to restore essential values among the youth, noting that sports teach discipline, teamwork, and the ability to accept both victory and defeat. He mentioned the government's increased focus on school sports, including plans to provide state-of-the-art facilities in ten regions and procure necessary equipment to support sports activities in schools.

Mr. Adams also noted the international attention the Democracy Cup has garnered, with Ghana's initiative being discussed at a recent meeting of sports ministers in Glasgow. He believes the program will become a significant platform for promoting both sports and democratic values. First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Bernard Ahiafor, who presented the cup, drew parallels between football and politics, emphasizing shared lessons in teamwork and cooperation.

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The government is also using sports to restore important values among young people.