Gospel artist Jak Alolome recently disclosed that he turned down a significant offer from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to join their campaign team.
Despite the substantial financial incentive, he chose to align himself with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and produce a campaign song for them ahead of the December 7 elections.
In an interview on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning show, Alolome explained that his choice was driven by his concern for the well-being of the average Ghanaian.
He emphasized that, as a businessman, he is acutely aware of the economic hardships faced by many people. His refusal to accept the NPP’s offer reflects his dissatisfaction with their handling of the economy and his support for the NDC’s campaign.
“Last year, they held my hand and took me to the NPP camp and offered a huge amount of money to join their campaign team, but I declined because the economy is hard now. I’m a businessman, and that’s because the welfare of many people is my concern. I get to eat when they eat, and now those people are complaining,” he told Roselyn Felli.
Alolome, who has not disclosed the exact amount offered by the NPP, criticized the current government for allegedly exploiting Ghanaians for personal gain. He joined the NDC in an effort to contribute to their cause and challenge the incumbent administration.
In a previous conversation on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z with Kwame Dadzie, Alolome stated that his decision to create the song “JM Begye Yen” for the NDC’s presidential candidate, John Mahama, was based on his personal convictions rather than financial motives. However, he remains open to any form of appreciation that might follow the song’s release.
Comparing the current administration to the previous NDC regime under Mahama, Alolome expressed disappointment with the worsening economic conditions since the NPP came into power.
“Nana Addo told us that Mahama’s administration was bad and he (Nana Addo) was going to bring us a better economy to make us comfortable. So, we voted Mahama out. But since he came into power, the petrol I buy compared to Mahama’s time is very bad. If I’m to weigh the works of Mahama and Nana Addo’s government as Dr. Bawumia is to take over, then Mahama has to come.”
He argued that the promises of improved economic conditions have not materialized, and he believes Mahama’s return could be beneficial.
Alolome’s involvement with the NDC follows a tradition of musicians supporting political parties in Ghana.
Notable artists who have backed the NDC include Nacee, Wayoosi, Mr. Beautiful, and Jewel Ackah, while the NPP has seen support from musicians such as Daddy Lumba, Omane Acheampong, Ofori Amponsah, and Diana Asamoah.