Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey, has shared that he’s been dealing with difficulties resulting from his time as a judge on the popular music reality show, Mentor.

Known for his strict and no-nonsense approach, Okraku-Mantey was dedicated to ensuring the show produced top talent, often rejecting contestants who didn't meet his high standards.

At the launch of the 2024 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC) on August 6, 2024, former Mentor contestant Nene Narh recalled being rejected by Okraku-Mantey during auditions.

As reported by 3news.com.gh, Mark Okraku-Mantey, while addressing the gathering, admitted that being a judge on Mentor has become problematic for him.

He explained, "Each episode of Mentor recorded over 2,500 people, so for six seasons, we had over 12,000 contestants. It's difficult to remember them all."

He added, “And it has become a problem for me now because some of them are true and some of them are not true, but how am I going to tell the difference because I don’t remember them, but this very one I do... Yes, I do.”.

Okraku-Mantey expressed his pride in Nene Narh's growth, saying, "I am happy he has become a better person, and I am proud of him."

The 2024 NAFAC launch saw many high-profile attendees, including the Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku-Mantey; the Bono East Regional Minister, Kwasi Adu Gyan; and the Executive Director of the National Commission on Culture, Nana Otuo Owoahene Acheampong.

The festival is set to take place from October 25 to 31 in Techiman, Bono East Region.

ID/OGB

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