Ghana’s deputy arts minister to vie for parliamentary seat

The music industry veteran is hoping to represent Ayensuano District in the Eastern Region of the country on the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) ticket.

The announcement arrives a few days after Okraku-Mantey led a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an amphitheatre in Kumasi, in fulfilment of a campaign promise by the government. The Kumasi project adds to four other multiplexes to be completed in various parts of the country.

Speaking on a local radio station earlier this week, Okraku-Mantey said the decision was inspired by calls from citizens in the area, adding that the constituency needed a fresh face.

“Somebody must go as a new face and all things considered, I have been around for some time, followed politicians and learnt all the tricks, and I know that I can make a lot of changes if I contest for member of parliament,” he said.

Working as a DJ in the early ‘90s, Okraku-Mantey began his career in production in 1996 after he founded of Slip Music, and went on to work with artists such as Oheneba Kissi, Lord Kenya, Daasebre Gyamenah, Adane Best, Akyeame and Kumi Guitar. He was also an executive producer of the popular Ghanaian television sitcom Efiewura. He was sworn into office as sector minister on 25 June 2021, deputising Ibrahim Mohammed Awal.

The NPP will hold its parliamentary primaries in February , and candidates can submit their nominations from 20 December to 4 January. Next year’s polls in Ghana will comprise presidential and parliamentary elections on 7 December.