NCCE Welcomes 3rd Annual Democracy Cup, Highlights Unity and Peace

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has welcomed the 3rd Annual Democracy Cup, an initiative that brings Ghana’s political parties together through football to promote unity, peace, tolerance and democratic stability.

Designed as more than a sporting competition, the Democracy Cup offers representatives of Ghana’s political parties an opportunity to set aside partisan differences and engage one another in an atmosphere of friendship and sportsmanship. Through football, the initiative demonstrates that political competition and ideological differences need not undermine peaceful coexistence or the shared responsibility of advancing Ghana’s national interest.

Joining the celebration was the Chairperson of the NCCE, Madam Kathleen Addy, who expressed her appreciation for the initiative and its contribution to Ghana’s democratic development. She underscored the importance of continuously nurturing a culture of peace, tolerance, mutual respect and responsible political participation in a society characterised by diverse political views and affiliations.

Also present were Mr. Ebenezer Ahuma Adjieto, Clerk to Parliament; Madam Abigail Aban Hanson, Deputy Clerk of Parliament; Mrs. Rosemary Sarkodie; and Mr. John Mensah, former captain and central defender of the Ghana Black Stars. Representatives of the Parliamentary Service also participated in the event.

Addressing participants, Mr. Adjieto emphasised the need for unity, peace and tolerance among Ghana’s political actors. He described the Democracy Cup as a valuable platform for political parties to interact beyond the formal political arena, strengthen relationships and demonstrate that political differences can be managed without undermining national cohesion.

According to him, sportsmanship, mutual respect and peaceful political engagement remain essential to sustaining Ghana’s democracy. He therefore encouraged stakeholders to continue promoting these values, stressing that the collective interest of Ghana must always take precedence over partisan considerations.

Participation extended beyond political and parliamentary representatives, with members of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), about 11 NCCE regional and district directors from the Accra area, and staff of the Commission’s Head Office joining the celebration. Their involvement reflected broad stakeholder support for the use of sport as a vehicle for peacebuilding and social cohesion.

Adding colour and energy to the occasion, drummers and enthusiastic supporters filled the NCCE premises with Jama, music and cheers. The lively display of Ghanaian culture created an atmosphere of celebration while reinforcing the sense of togetherness at the heart of the Democracy Cup.

Mr. John Mensah’s presence was particularly symbolic. As a former Black Stars captain, his participation highlighted the strong connection between football and civic values. Teamwork, discipline, leadership, respect for rules, and sportsmanship are principles that matter not only on the football pitch, but also in the functioning of a healthy democratic society.

Beyond the contest for a trophy, the Democracy Cup creates space for political actors to build relationships outside the conventional political environment and demonstrate that disagreement does not have to result in division. Such interactions help strengthen the culture of tolerance required for peaceful democratic governance.

This year’s edition therefore served as a reminder that Ghana’s democracy is strongest when citizens and political actors can disagree peacefully, respect one another and remain united around the common good.

For the NCCE, the initiative aligns with our mandate to promote democratic values, civic responsibility, peace and national cohesion. It also provides an engaging platform for communicating an important civic message, particularly to young people: democracy is not about winning at all costs, but about participation, respect, tolerance and recognising that every citizen has a place in the national endeavour.