Dancehall superstar Shatta Wale urges young people to back President Mahama

Shatta Wale Calls on Youth to Support President Mahama’s Government

Ghanaian dancehall icon Shatta Wale has sparked political conversation after urging the country’s youth to rally behind President John Mahama, stating that his administration holds the key to youth empowerment and economic opportunity.

The artist, born Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., made the appeal during a headline performance at the 2025 President’s Cup in Accra, where he addressed thousands of fans in a sold-out stadium.

“From now till the next election, support this government,” Wale told the crowd. “If you are a youth and you want to see money in your pocket, then support this government.”

His remarks were met with loud applause and cheers from the audience. But outside the stadium, reactions have been more divided.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

While many of his supporters welcomed the endorsement, some political commentators and observers criticized the move, accusing the artist of seeking political favour rather than offering meaningful guidance to his fans.

“Shatta Wale’s words can’t be taken lightly given his influence among Ghanaian youth,” said political analyst Kwame Antwi-Danso. “But the concern here is the blurring of lines between celebrity culture and political engagement. People should support candidates based on informed choices and policies, not star power.”

On social media, reactions were swift. Some users praised Wale for being “brave enough” to speak up politically, while others questioned his motives. One post read: “You want us to support Mahama because of a concert? What about policies, jobs, education?”

Others warned against entertainers becoming mouthpieces for political campaigns without fully understanding or engaging in national development dialogue.

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Wale Defends His Stance

Following the performance, Shatta Wale took to social media to post a public tribute to President Mahama, thanking him for his leadership and commitment to Ghana’s young people.

“Thank you, President Mahama, for showing real love and support to the youth,” Wale wrote. “Ghana’s future depends on empowering the next generation, and I see you doing just that.”

This is not the first time the artist has made headlines for weighing in on national politics. He has previously called for better living conditions for the youth and criticized politicians for neglecting their promises.

Still, his open support for a sitting president—particularly one who recently returned to office—has escalated public debate about the role of musicians and celebrities in shaping public opinion during election seasons.

Mahama’s Return to Office

John Mahama officially began his second presidential term in January 2025, after winning the elections on a platform focused heavily on youth empowerment, job creation, and economic stabilization.

This return marks a significant chapter in Ghana’s political history. Mahama first served as president in 2012 after completing the term of his predecessor, John Atta Mills, who died in office. He lost the 2016 election but mounted a strong comeback campaign in 2024, promising to restore confidence in governance and deliver for ordinary Ghanaians.

Wale’s endorsement adds a layer of cultural relevance to Mahama’s administration, especially among younger demographics who may not be politically engaged but are highly active in Ghana’s music and entertainment scene.

Looking Ahead to 2028

Although Ghana’s next general election is three years away, the statements made at the President’s Cup have already injected momentum into the country’s political discourse.

Some analysts suggest Wale’s comments could influence voting patterns, especially among undecided or first-time voters. Others caution that celebrity endorsements often fade if not backed by visible action from the government being endorsed.

Political scientist Dr. Elsie Appiah summed it up: “Shatta Wale has started a conversation, but now the onus is on the government to live up to those expectations. If there’s no real change, even star endorsements won’t mean much by 2028.”

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