Ghanaian media personality Ola Michael has fervently rejected the notion of granting popular Ghanaian dancehall artist Shatta Wale a diplomatic passport. The Neat FM presenter has strongly challenged the assertion that Shatta Wale’s contribution to the nation’s exposure surpasses that of the finest Ghanaian diplomats. Michael’s remarks were made during a panel discussion on UTV’s flagship program, “United Showbiz.”
The controversy stems from a tweet by former French Ambassador to Ghana, Anne Sophie Avé, in which she advocated for the issuance of diplomatic passports to high-profile Ghanaian artists. Avé contended that artists such as Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, R2Bees, and King Promise, contribute significantly to showcasing Ghana on the global stage, perhaps even more effectively than the country’s most accomplished ambassadors.
Avé’s tweet, dated July 30, read, “Ghana, you should give these guys diplomatic passports: they put Ghana to the world better than even the best ambassadors could in a lifetime. ‘@sarkodie, @stonebwoy, @blacksherif, @shattawalegh, @r2bees, @IamKingPromise.”
Ola Michael, however, took a dissenting view during the discussion on “United Showbiz.” He argued that Shatta Wale’s contributions, while notable in the music industry, do not equate to the responsibilities and expectations associated with diplomatic roles. Michael highlighted that the role of diplomats is not solely about visibility but encompasses various intricacies involving international relations, negotiations, and representation of national interests.
Michael’s viewpoint has sparked debate within the Ghanaian media landscape, with supporters on both sides of the argument weighing in on the matter. Advocates for granting diplomatic passports to artists emphasize their influence in spreading Ghanaian culture and music around the world, contending that this has a positive impact on tourism, investment, and national pride. On the other hand, those opposing this stance stress the specialized nature of diplomatic work, insisting that the issuance of diplomatic passports should be reserved for individuals engaged in formal diplomacy.