Kumasi: The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has revealed that the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will participate in the 2026 Democracy Cup celebrations in Kumasi. The announcement was made after Speaker Bagbin officially received the 2026 Democracy Cup trophy in anticipation of the highly anticipated match between Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak.
According to Ghana Web, the match is scheduled for August 28, 2026, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. Speaking at the trophy presentation ceremony, Speaker Bagbin expressed satisfaction with the preparations for the event and showed confidence that it would draw a significant crowd. He noted, "I'm happy to hear that the teams are preparing feverishly for the game at the end of this month. We will do all we can to be at Kumasi, and really, my father, His Majesty, the royal king, says he will be there to participate."
The Speaker emphasized that Otumfuo's presence would enhance the significance of the event, which aims to integrate football, democracy, and national unity. He also commended the enthusiasm of football supporters in Kumasi, highlighting the capacity of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to attract large numbers of fans. "We are glorified, and we believe that, as usual, the Baba Yara Stadium will gather the numbers that we want," he stated.
Bagbin encouraged football supporters to engage actively in the event and urged players and stakeholders to acknowledge the increasing economic value of the sport. As part of the Democracy Cup celebrations, he mentioned plans to lead a delegation to present the trophy to other government arms, including President John Dramani Mahama.
Additionally, the Speaker announced a new partnership between Ghana and English Premier League club Sunderland under the 'Visit Ghana' initiative. The tourism campaign is set to feature prominently on Sunderland's jerseys during the 2026/27 English Premier League season. Bagbin highlighted that the partnership aims to utilize the global appeal of English football to promote Ghana as a top tourism destination and to attract more visitors to the country.