Stonebwoy, a Ghanaian reggae dancehall performer, has sparked debate on social media by claiming that creatives lack the capacity to execute or influence policy in the country.
Only people in positions of power, he believes, have the ability to influence and decide on policies that affect society.
The “Into the Future” hitmaker acknowledged the importance and respect that musicians get, but he emphasized the necessity for the public to have realistic expectations about their participation in policy-making.
Stonebwoy’s comments were in response to a Snapchat comment from a fan, illustrating how celebrities frequently keep out of national concerns.
This remark is especially pertinent in light of the country’s current #OccupyJulorbiHouse movement.
The Democracy Hub, a collection of young activists, planned the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration to demand action on serious economic issues and corruption. Despite an injunction issued by the Ghana Police, the demonstration took place on Thursday, September 21, 2023.
The police handling of the incident, including arrests made during the rally, garnered harsh condemnation for hindering the constitutional right to demonstrate and using excessive force. Detainees were transferred to several police stations across the capital, infuriating demonstrators and legal counsel seeking to gain their release.
