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 Speaker made the disclosure after officially receiving the 2026 Democracy Cup trophy ahead of the much-anticipated clash between Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak.

The match is scheduled for August 28, 2026, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

Speaking at the trophy presentation ceremony, Speaker Bagbin said he was pleased with the preparations for the match and expressed confidence that the event would attract a large crowd.

“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,” he said.

He said the presence of Otumfuo would add significance to the event, which seeks to combine football, democracy and national unity.

Speaker Bagbin also praised the passion of football supporters in Kumasi, describing the Baba Yara Sports Stadium as a venue capable of attracting large numbers of enthusiastic fans.

“We are glorified, and we believe that, as usual, the Baba Yara Stadium will gather the numbers that we want,” he stated.

He urged football supporters to actively participate in the event and encouraged players and stakeholders to recognise the growing economic value of the sport.

As part of the Democracy Cup celebrations, the Speaker said he would lead a delegation to present the trophy to other arms of government, including President John Dramani Mahama.

He further announced a new partnership between Ghana and English Premier League side Sunderland under the “Visit Ghana” initiative.

The tourism campaign is expected to feature prominently on the front of Sunderland’s jersey during the 2026/27 English Premier League season.

According to the Speaker, the partnership will leverage the global reach of English football to promote Ghana as a leading tourism destination and attract more visitors to the country.

AM

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