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The showbiz industry in Ghana usually does not mix well with politics. Mainly due to the heavily divided nature of the political space, few musicians and actors declare their political preferences, and even fewer overtly support any party. However, along the way, some make public their stances and endorsements. Others go further to run on the ticket of the party of their choice. Their decisions typically result in a mix of both strong and gentle responses.
Find below some Ghanaian celebrities who have made such crossovers over the years:
John Dumelo
Most notable is ace actor, farmer, and now politician John Dumelo. In 2016 he became one of the famous personalities to throw their weight behind the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and was subsequently appointed Operations Director of a pro-NDC youth group, Agenda for Mahama to propagate the objectives of the party. In 2020, Dumelo fully dived into politics when he ran for MP in the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency on the ticket of the NDC. However, he lost to the incumbent MP and New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Lydia Seyram Alhassan. But Dumelo has not given up. He plans to contest the same seat in 2024 and calls it his “second coming”.
Kwame Dzokoto
Seth Kwame Dzokoto, also known in Ghanaian circles as “Edziban” is a comedian, actor, and former host of the Edziban show on TV3. In 2016, Dzokoto ran for Parliament as a member of the NDC in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem constituency. He lost the election to the NPP candidate and incumbent MP, George Mireku Duker. He, however, is yet to speak about his plans for the future.
Kwame A Plus
Kwame Asare Obeng, best known as A Plus is a Ghanaian musician, social media personality, and political commentator known for his outspoken views on social and political issues. In recent years, A Plus has become increasingly involved in politics and has been a vocal critic of the NPP government. A Plus’s political activism has made him a controversial figure, having faced several allegations, and calls for arrest. He remains one of the most outspoken critics of the incumbent government.
Prince David Osei
Ghanaian actor Prince David Osei has been involved in politics in recent years. In 2016 and 2020, Osei campaigned for the NPP in the lead-up to the elections. However, he has since expressed regret for his support, calling the NPP government a greedy one that has failed to fulfill its promises to the people. Osei’s political activism has made him a controversial figure. He has been accused of being a hypocrite for supporting the NPP in the past and then criticizing them now. However, he has defended his actions, saying that he is only speaking out against what he believes is wrong.
Lilwin
Popular Kumawood actor, comedian, and musician, Kwadwo Nkansah, famously called Lilwin this year announced his intention to run for Parliament in the 2024 elections. He will contest as an independent candidate in the Afigya-Kwabre South constituency. Lilwin’s political aspirations have been met with mixed reactions. Some people have praised him for his decision to enter politics; others have called his ambition “a joke” while others have criticized him for using his celebrity status to further his own political ambitions. Whether Lilwin will be successful in his bid for parliament remains to be seen.
