The 3rd edition of the Democracy Cup was officially launched on Tuesday at Parliament House in Accra.

For the first time, the main ceremony will take place in Kumasi on August 30, with expanded activities aimed at making an even greater impact.

The launch was attended by parliamentarians, ambassadors, sponsors, the ever-colourful Ghana Supporters Union, and former players.

The event marked the official beginning of activities commemorating the third edition of the Democracy Cup.

Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei called for the Democracy Cup to be used as a tool to bridge gender inequality.

“As a woman in leadership, I'm particularly encouraged by the inclusive potential of this initiative. Sports, when intentionally structured, can be a powerful tool for promoting gender equity and youth empowerment. I urge that future editions actively incorporate women's themes.”

Majority Chief Whip Rockson Dafeamekpor lauded the competition’s ability to connect the governed and the governors.

“Speaker, parliaments across the globe have been deficient in bridging the gap between the people and the institution of parliament.

“This creates a persistent perception gap between parliament and the citizenry, especially the youth who are the future leaders of our nations. Most young people, therefore, see governance as distant, complex, and most times inaccessible.

“The Democracy Cup, therefore, is a well-calculated and thought-through intervention that seeks to bridge this gap.”

In his address, Speaker Alban Bagbin revealed the introduction of a series of events and curtain-raiser games to build up to the main ceremony.

“So, after the Under-19 National Tournament, which is meant to support youth talent development, we will then have the Executive and Legislature match. This is meant to promote institutional cohesion.

‘Then we will also have an all-women’s football match to advance gender inclusion in sports, before we proceed to the main Democracy Cup match.”

The 2026 edition will be contested by Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on a yet-to-be-announced date.

The two teams battled it out for the maiden edition, with the Porcupine Warriors emerging victorious, while the Phobians edged rivals Great Olympics in the second edition.