Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame has disclosed that he turned down an offer to become the running mate of presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen in the upcoming 2024 general elections.

Speaking in an interview with Joy FM on November 16, the veteran artist revealed that Mr. Kyerematen, founder of the Movement for Change, approached him three months ago with the proposal. He explained that Mr. Kyerematen outlined ten criteria for selecting a running mate, all of which he believed the musician fulfilled.

However, Okyeame Kwame, whose real name is Kwame Nsiah-Apau, said he declined the offer due to the challenges and pressures associated with political life.

“It was very flattering. They wanted someone who had accomplished something significant, and I’ve been in the music industry for 26 years. They also considered personal factors, like marriage and family,” he said.

The musician cited concerns about potential propaganda, security threats, and the intense public scrutiny that comes with a political career. He said his family’s well-being was central to his decision.

“My children are teenagers. If I were to go into partisan politics, I would need to prepare them for at least a year. What if people spread false propaganda about me? What if they dug up skeletons from my past? I hadn’t prepared my family for that kind of pressure,” he explained.

Mr. Kyerematen has since chosen 40-year-old Elijah Kwame Owusu Danso as his running mate. A former hip-hop artist and broadcaster with Pan African TV, Mr. Danso has transitioned to a career in law.

Okyeame Kwame’s decision highlights the growing interest in drawing non-traditional figures, such as entertainers, into the political landscape as Ghana prepares for a highly anticipated election season.

Source:TheDotNews