Opinions of Wednesday, 14 June 2017

Columnist: Akyena Brantuo Benjamin

Shatta Wale: A true Ghanaian

Shatta Wale Shatta Wale

Most musicians sink their careers as soon as they mount a political platform. Not Shatta Wale. Rather, politics has added to his fame.

In the 2016 elections, when the NDC openly campaigned with his song 'Mahama Paper' their rival, the NPP and candidate Akuffo Addo danced to 'Kakai', another hit song of his, to victory.

Which of the political divides does Shatta Wale support? Maybe it's about the money.

At present, he has a song on galamsey leading the charts. It is titled 'Taking Over'. He has another song against galamsey titled 'Maxwell Adam Mahama-Tribute, which the late Major's widow and well wishers are consoling themselves with.

Again where does Shatta Wale stand in the fight against galamsey? Maybe it's also about the money.

Many have questioned whether Shatta Wale is a Dancehall artiste or Hiplife artiste. Maybe he sings just for the money.

It is sad that money is the predominant decider of our actions, but that is the character of a true Ghanaian. Ghana is this ravaged because people are always money driven. Nothing else matters.

Our politicians are in politics only for the money. The media are in business for the money. I wish the pastors and religious leaders were any different. Talk about human right lawyers, civil society or the academia; it is all about the money. Like Shatta Wale, they all belong nowhere. They fear that taking principled stance will tarnish their reputations and affect their sources of income. They come around only when food is ready.

It is trite that life is not all about money. It is also about integrity, morality, excellence, principles, pride and values, living a legacy for our children and fighting wrong at the peril of our lives and comfort.

Martin Luther King said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."