“Kwabena Kwabena Became Bigger After Endorsing Akufo-Addo” – Okraku-Mantey

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, has weighed in on the debate surrounding the impact of political affiliations on the careers of creatives. In an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, Okraku-Mantey argued that an individual’s success or failure is not solely dependent on their political affiliations.

“Some people have endorsed political parties, but were still strong in their field of work,” he noted. Citing Kwabena Kwabena as a prime example, Okraku-Mantey pointed out that the musician’s career actually flourished after endorsing Nana Akufo-Addo as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Presidential Candidate.

“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].”

Okraku-Mantey, who was analyzing the effects of partisan politics on creatives, also shared his personal experience of maintaining business relationships despite his involvement in politics. “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.'”

Kwabena Kwabena, who first endorsed Akufo-Addo in 2008 with the song ‘Number One’, has since distanced himself from politics. In a recent interview with TV3, he stated, “I am completely out of politics. I am Ghanaian.” Kwabena Kwabena has released a new song titled ‘Fakye Me’ featuring Obaapa Christy, which is part of his upcoming gospel EP, ‘God of Restoration’.