Ghanaian music icon and entrepreneur Kwame Nsiah-Apau, popularly known as Okyeame Kwame, has disclosed that he turned down an offer to become the running mate of John Alan Kyerematen, the presidential candidate for the Movement for Change, in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
The revelation came during an interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z with host Kwame Dadzie, where the “Rap Doctor” shared details of the surprising political overture made to him three months ago.
According to Okyeame Kwame, while he felt honored by the offer, he declined it due to personal and family considerations. “I had to think about the impact this decision would have on my family. Entering politics would have exposed us to potential propaganda and scrutiny from opponents, and I wasn’t ready to subject them to that,” he explained.
The celebrated artist further emphasized his commitment to living by the principles he teaches his children, especially the value of consistency. He stated, “I always tell my kids that consistency is key. If I make such a huge shift into politics without adequate preparation, I wouldn’t be practicing what I preach. I had to show by leadership.”
Okyeame Kwame’s decision highlights the balancing act public figures often face between seizing new opportunities and protecting their personal lives. While he expressed his admiration for Alan Kyerematen’s vision, he concluded that his current focus is on his family and existing commitments.
Alan Kyerematen, a former Minister of Trade and Industry, recently broke away from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to launch the Movement for Change, positioning himself as a third-force candidate in Ghana’s political landscape. His outreach to influential figures like Okyeame Kwame signals an unconventional strategy aimed at appealing to a broader audience.
For now, however, Okyeame Kwame remains dedicated to his artistic career and philanthropic endeavors, opting to stay on the sidelines of active politics.
