Knii Lante argues that the creative arts industry is not just about entertainment
Musician and medical doctor, Knii Lante, has strongly criticised the Member of Parliament (MP) of Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, for his recent comments during the vetting of actor and politician, John Dumelo, for the role of Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture-designate Minister.
Speaking on Hitz FM, Knii Lante expressed outrage over the MP’s suggestion, questioning why, despite the number of politicians from backgrounds like law and medicine, the country is still in its current state.
“The doctors and lawyers rule the country year in and year out. Look at the nonsense we are inside. Look at where they brought us to. How dare they? Do they think that people are stupid?” he questioned.
Knii Lante further argued that the creative arts industry is not just about entertainment, but also serves educational, social, and political purposes.
“Music is not only for entertainment. Movies are not only for entertainment. Some are for educative purposes, some are to garner community around a certain drive, and some are for health purposes,” he stated.
He also referenced a historical incident involving Grace Omaboe, a veteran actress and politician, who faced similar dismissive attitudes when she ventured into politics.
“Somebody came up with a statement that ‘Do you think that Parliament is for concert party?’” Knii Lante recalled.
Knii Lante emphasised the importance of music and the arts in nation-building, citing Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, as an example of a leader who understood their value.
“Kwame Nkrumah found it worthwhile to use musicians to promote his political agenda. Now, they don’t even know what to do with music. They don’t know the power of music,” he said.
He criticised the current political class for failing to recognise the potential of the creative arts to drive social change and economic growth.
What happened?
During Dumelo’s vetting on February 25, 2025, Habib Iddrisu advised the actor-turned-politician to take his new role seriously, stating, “When you go to the ministry, you are no longer in the movie industry. Try to be as serious as you can to support your minister in succeeding.”
The comment sparked widespread backlash from creatives and industry stakeholders, who viewed it as a dismissal of the value of the arts.
ID/AE
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Also, watch as Ahiafor explodes at Habib over ‘insulting’ deputy minister question
