Following the passing of Highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, Mark Okraku-Mantey has revealed that the music icon once dreamed of swapping the stage for Parliament, and even aspired to a royal seat in his hometown.
Speaking on Adom TV’s Showtym on August 9, 2025, during a discussion on Daddy Lumba’s complex legacy, Okraku-Mantey said he had reliable information that the “Aben Wo Ha” hitmaker wanted to contest for a seat in Parliament.
Individuals Daddy Lumba sang about and their role in his life journeyt
He hinted that former President Akufo-Addo, who had a close relationship with the late musician, could one day share more details about this political ambition.
According to Okraku-Mantey, just as Daddy Lumba was preparing to take a step into politics, his health began to deteriorate, forcing him to abandon those plans.
He added that the Highlife legend’s leadership aspirations were not limited to politics, he also wanted to serve as a traditional ruler in his hometown, a role his family later confirmed he was interested in.
“I got some ‘filla’ that Daddy Lumba had ambitions of becoming an MP. One day, Akufo-Addo will disclose everything for everyone to hear. He had a special relationship with him. As it neared his time, sickness began to trouble him, and he had to leave everything behind.
“He also aspired to become a chief; in fact, his family even came forward to say that he wanted to take on this role in his hometown. After pursuing a career in music, he wanted to transition into a leadership position,” Okraku-Mantey said.
Individuals Daddy Lumba sang about and their role in his life journeyt
Daddy Lumba, who passed away on July 26, 2025, left behind decades of timeless music and an unmatched influence on Ghana’s music scene.
Meanwhile, watch as Ghanaians hold candlelight vigil in honor of Highlife icon Daddy Lumba:
AK/MA
