Stand up for the Arts- Osoode slams cash-driven celebrity endorsements in politics

Ghanaian actor and comedian Osoode has weighed in on the trend of celebrities aligning themselves with political parties, often for personal gain. In a candid conversation, he expressed concern over how many celebrities flock to support ruling parties, often motivated by financial incentives rather than a genuine commitment to progress for the country—or for the creative industry that helped build their platforms.

“When these politicians are in power, you see these celebrities rushing to align with them,” Osoode remarked, reflecting on the common pattern. “They go for what they’re promised, but you rarely see them advocate for meaningful changes that will actually support the arts.”

Osoode highlighted the example of veteran actor Agya Koo, a well-known supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Agya Koo had previously stated that he did not expect any immediate financial reward for his endorsement, suggesting a more altruistic approach. However, Osoode pointed out that for many, this is not the case. “Agya Koo was upfront about his reasons, but not everyone thinks like him. Some expect to see instant benefits. And when they don’t get it, they go public about it,” he added with a knowing smile, referencing the trend of celebrities lamenting a lack of returns on their support.

Osoode, who is known for his unfiltered takes on industry issues, argued that there’s a fundamental problem when celebrities fail to use their influence for the benefit of the creative industry. “It’s not wrong for a celebrity to endorse a party,” he clarified. “The problem is when that endorsement is just for show or for personal gain. Celebrities have influence, and they could use that to demand that politicians address issues in the creative sector.”

In his view, it’s a missed opportunity. “Celebrities have the platform to tell politicians, ‘If you don’t support us, we—and our fans—won’t support you.’ That’s powerful. But how many of them are willing to put their own gain aside to push for something bigger than themselves?”

Osoode concluded by suggesting that accountability is the missing ingredient. Without it, he said, the endorsements come across as self-serving. “You’ll see them rallying for votes, but when it’s time to speak up for our industry, they’re silent. It makes you wonder why they’re really doing it.”