Contrary to claims that political affiliations are usually inimical to the careers of creatives, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey it depends on the individual.
Speaking to Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, Mark said some people have endorsed political parties but was strong in their field of work.
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).
“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.
He also 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.
Kwabena Kwabena first endorsed Akufo-Addo in 2008 with ‘Number One’, which was used as a campaign song for the NPP.
He continued with his support for Akufo-Addo in the 2012 and 2016 elections.
In the meantime, Kwabena Kwabena has said that he is done with politics. He told TV3 in an interview that he does not want to be involved in politics again.
“I am completely out of politics. I am Ghanaian,” he said when asked if he would campaign for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in this year’s general election.
Kwabena Kwabena is currently out with a song titled ‘Fakye Me’ featuring Obaapa Christy. This is taken off his upcoming gospel EP titled ‘God of Restoration.”