Popular Ghanaian comedian and actor, Richard Kweku Asante, popularly known as Kalybos, has opened up about the personal reasons that influenced his decision to join the New Patriotic Party (NPP) campaign ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FM on July 5, 2025, Kalybos revealed that his support for the NPP was rooted in his belief in the transformative impact of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, a flagship initiative of the former current government.
Addressing public perceptions that celebrities often endorse political parties for financial gain or personal benefits, Kalybos was quick to dismiss such notions.
Kalybos recounted how, before the introduction of Free SHS, he was overwhelmed by the constant demands for financial assistance to pay school fees not only from his immediate family but also from his extended family and community members.
“Back then, the amount of money I spent on school fees was unbelievable, there is this public perception that once you appear on TV, you’re rich. So, people kept coming with school fee issues from family, from my mother’s side, from the community. It was endless,” he said.
The financial strain, he said, took a toll on his ability to save or invest in personal projects. At times, he found himself financially drained after meeting these obligations.
While admitting that there was a “little bit of selfishness” in his decision to support the Free SHS policy, Kalybos explained that his so-called selfishness stemmed from a desire to ease the financial burden that had weighed on him for years.
“If I could help promote this policy and make sure it stays, it meant I could save money and finally pursue projects I had put on hold.
“Before Free SHS, I become broke after paying fees in September. But with the policy in place, I finally had breathing space.”
“I have worked with both sides before, but this was something I personally saw the value in. It wasn’t just talk; it made a real difference in people’s lives and in mine too.”
Kalybos reveals that his political involvement with the NPP led to a job offer from Sammy Awuku at the NLA. He also highlights some of the major achievements Sammy Awuku chalked up during his time there. #ShowbizAtoZ pic.twitter.com/xsmPILNQk3
— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) July 5, 2025
AM/KA
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