President of the Creative Arts Council and Programs Director of Accra-based Hitz FM, Mark Okraku-Mantey has said he is shocked that his bosom friend is kicking against campaigns for him to be appointed as Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Arts and Culture.
According to Mr. Okraku-Mantey, it is surprising to him that movie producer, Ola Michael with whom he shares meals and many other personal things is the one kicking against the push for his elevation to a deputy ministerial position when many industry players including people he has no relation with are vigorously campaigning for him to be considered for the position.
The renowned music producer who feels betrayed by his friend’s opposition to his possible elevation said Mr. Ola Michael’s claim that he is unfit for the position because he failed to deliver as President of the Creative Arts Council is untrue as he (Ola Michael) is a witness to some of his achievements at the council.
He, however, said he is unperturbed by Mr. Ola Michael’s opposition since such oppositions are normal in leadership positions and will put him on his toes to perform better if he is appointed.
“The one that I saw (opposing the campaigns) and I was surprised is Ola Michael who said I’m not fit for the deputy ministerial position because I haven’t delivered at the Creative Arts Council. You know why I’m surprised? Because we eat together and we do a lot together but it is nothing. When I saw a shot (of his comment), I said it is all good because Ola is one person we did a lot of things with at the council and he knows, so if he says the council didn’t do anything, I’m wondering if the bill wasn’t passed.
But as you take the leadership space, you should train yourself to see a lot of Judases around you. People you roll with will disagree with you and it is part of leadership. You must accept them and see them as another side of motivating you. And also realize that people are watching you to do the right to change the narrative,” he stated.
Some industry players in the creative art sector have mounted a spirited campaign for Mr. Okraku-Mantey to be considered for appointment as Deputy Minister for the sector after Mr. Mohammed Awal was nominated for approval to be appointed as Minister for Tourism, Creative Arts and Culture.
There are, however, other industry players who opposed the campaigns to have the president of the Creative Arts Council appointed as the sector’s deputy minister.
One of such industry players is movie producer, Ola Michael who argued that Mr. Okraku-Mantey has not demonstrated while at the Creative Art Council that he deserves such elevation.
