Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey has made a bold assertion regarding the career of highlife musician, Kwabena Kwabena. According to Mantey, the “Aso” hitmaker gained even more prominence after publicly endorsing President Nana Akufo-Addo during the 2016 elections.
While speaking with Joy FM’s Kwame Dadzie on the Showbiz A-Z, Mark opined that some creatives have supported political parties but that did not affect their strengths.
Citing Kwabena Kwabena as an example, he said the ‘Asor’ crooner’s music career became more vibrant even after he endorsed Nana Akufo-Addo as Presidential Candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mantey, who has been a key figure in Ghana’s entertainment industry, suggested that Kwabena Kwabena’s decision to align himself with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) elevated his status in the music industry.
Despite the potential risks involved in taking a political stand, Kwabena Kwabena’s endorsement of Akufo-Addo, which included performing at political rallies and featuring in campaign songs, according to the minister did not hinder his career but rather opened new opportunities for him.
“Kwabena Kwabena became a bigger artiste after ‘NPP Wo Soro’ [song]. Yea, Kwabena Kwabena became more popular after endorsing Candidate Akufo-Addo. So if you have your issues don’t blame them on the political parties. If you manage yourself well, position yourself well as a brand, [you will thrive].
The Deputy Minister who contributed to the discussion on the impact of creatives in partisan politics was analysing how being involved affects creatives.
Mark further mentioned how a company he used to work with before getting into politics are still willing to do business with him.
“I spoke with some companies that I used to work with. I said you guys because I am now in politics you wouldn’t want to work with me. They said when I am done with politics, I should come and that they are ready to still do business with me,” he said.
