Be wary of comments on socio-political issues
Ghanaian musician, rapper and record producer, M.anifest has cautioned his colleagues in the entertainment industry to be wary of comments made on socio-political issues, especially when interviewed on international platforms.
According to him artistes must learn to be selective in their responses to sensitive issues as they may not have all the facts on a particular subject.
“I know that it is difficult for some artistes to keep silent on societal issues but don’t let anybody turn you into a historian since you’re not! However, if you want to be one, prepare yourself for that task.
“I do not like the fact that when most African artistes appear on international platforms, they are questioned as if they are Fela Kuti. You don’t develop that capability overnight to have that clarity of thought on social or political issues,” he advised.
The renowned rapper, also known as Kwame Ametepee Tsikata, was speaking at a symposium held at the University of Ghana, on Monday, themed: “Creative Economy and Our Collective Future and Development,” as part of activities marking the University’s 75th anniversary.
M.anifest’s remarks follow public criticism of Afrobeat Burna Boy, for what is deemed as his “silence” on issues concerning the recent general election held in Nigeria.
He said though some musicians communicate public sentiments through their songs, artistes should not be pressured in stating an opinion if they genuinely do not have any comments to make.
“Not every artiste is supposed to be a voice on social issues, they might not even have the capability to do so. Besides, some of the questions asked by interviewers could be meant to trap the musicians into saying what they are not supposed to say,” he added.
Speaking on creative economy in the entertainment industry, he said the creative art was pivotal to Ghana’s development, therefore, there must be structures and institutions that would enhance the potentials of players in the industry.
“Politics, healthcare, education, and bread and butter issues will always be at the top of the totem pole. But don’t underestimate the impact of the arts on our society,” he stated.
He cited an instance where the BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology, in the USA, had produced numerous famous alumni such as Adele, Amy Winehouse and others.
“Can Ghana also produce an example similar to those in other countries? Won’t you be happy to have people from the School of Performing Arts reaching such heights?” he asked.
By Yunusah Essandoh
President John Mahama has arrived in Moscow, Russia, from Ethiopia to participate in the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit.
The summit is being hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
During the visit, President Mahama will join fellow African leaders at the Economic and Humanitarian Forum and summit plenary sessions.
He is also scheduled to hold high-level bilateral talks with President Putin and attend a Kente exhibition organised by the Russia-Ghana Parliamentary Forum.
As part of the visit, the President will receive honorary doctorate degrees from the Russian University of Transport and the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.
He will also engage Russian businesses and state institutions to advance bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Russia.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
The Greater Accra Regional Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Moses Abor, has met with the Bono Regional Chairman of the party, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, to address concerns arising from recent social media developments.
In a statement shared , Mr. Abor said he yesterday visited Chairman Baffoe over comments he made on his show, which had raised concern among some party activists.
According to him, he also engaged Charles Opoku Presidoo and ironed out grievances he had earlier held regarding the matter.
Mr. Abor said he was pleased that in the spirit of unity and the party’s shared commitment to return to power in 2028, they had a constructive conversation and addressed the concerns amicably.
“With the matter now resolved, I encourage all Party activists to let the matter rest and redirect our energy toward holding the NDC accountable for its failures and misleading claims,” he said.
He urged party members to continue making the case to Ghanaians on why Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the right person to lead the country in 2028.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
