EDITOR’S LENS: No political enemies here
As the election fever heats up, it's easy to get caught up in the zeal of factionalism. And in the last few weeks, our entertainers have been entangled in a web of spirited debates and passionate disagreements.
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Interestingly, while this year has been a major eye-opener to the significant roles celebrities can play in our politics, it appears the few bold ones who have come out have had to face the wrath of their fans who share different political views.
However, the major issue rearing its ugly head is the perceived enmity growing among the celebrities for sharing differing political views.
In this season, celebrities, in particular, have become lightning rods for political polarisation, with their opinions and endorsements sparking both adoration and outrage.
Surprisingly, the outrage hasn’t been limited to their fans but among themselves because of their differences.
The likes of media personality, Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD) and music producer, Fred Kyei Mensah (Fredymma) have shared their views on the growing trend which is worrying.
Graphic Showbiz believes that while these celebrities are dealing with fans who disagree with their political choices, the burden of knowing you are an enemy to a colleague because of your political difference is a weight that can be just crushing, stifling creativity, silencing important voices and undermining the very sense of community that make the entertainment industry thrive. (Related articles: The dilemma of celebrity politician, EDITOR'S LENS: Saving creatives from the claws of drug abuse, Editor's Lens: Rotten state of Efua Sutherland Park is a shame)
Besides, some celebrities such as King Paluta see performing at political events as just business. He has said he would perform for any political party that would pay him, and that's a smart approach. It's about the work, not politics.
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Similarly, others such Olivetheboy, have been forced to clarify their involvement with political parties. He had to explain that he performed at an NDC event because of a contract, not because he's a member of the party. This shows how tricky it has been for celebrities to get themselves involved in politics.
The entertainment industry is special because it brings people together EDwith different talents, ideas and experiences. Political differences shouldn't get in the way of this.
Hence, Graphic Showbiz is encouraging our creatives to show us how to disagree without being disagreeable.
They can have respectful conversations and work together on projects that celebrate our differences. We should not allow politics to divide us.
Celebrities can lead the way by being kind, respectful and inclusive. We can all learn from their example and get along, even when we don't agree. Let’s all sing the chorus, “No political enemies here”.