By Grace Zigah
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation Samuel Nartey George, has come under heavy criticism after unveiling an official signature anthem produced by award-winning dancehall artiste Stonebwoy, with many Ghanaians questioning the timing of the release amid pressing national challenges.
The controversy erupted after the Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament announced on his official X account that his new anthem, “Dzata (For God & Country),” had been released on major digital streaming platforms. The song, produced by Stonebwoy under the Burniton Music Group (BNNG) label, is inspired by the minister’s popular political slogan, “For God and Country.”
Sharing the announcement with his followers, Sam George invited supporters and the general public to stream the song on their preferred music platforms.
“My signature anthem, produced by Ghana’s finest – @stonebwoy – can now be streamed online via your favourite music app,” he posted.
Although the announcement generated significant attention online, it quickly triggered a wave of criticism from sections of the public, many of whom argued that the minister should be focusing on governance and addressing urgent national concerns instead of promoting a personal anthem.
Several critics pointed to the recent flooding disasters that claimed lives and destroyed property in parts of the country, arguing that the release of a personal theme song at such a time appeared insensitive and disconnected from the mood of the nation.
Others also questioned whether a serving cabinet minister should devote public attention to personal branding while citizens continue to demand solutions to economic hardships, poor road infrastructure and other development challenges.
One social media user accused the minister of failing to meet the expectations of the public office he occupies despite his personal achievements, while another maintained that the criticism should not be directed at Stonebwoy, insisting that the musician was merely performing his professional duty as an artiste.
The commenter argued that the real issue was the decision by a sitting minister to launch a signature anthem while many Ghanaians were mourning victims of recent floods, describing the move as “tone-deaf.”
Another user shifted attention to development concerns within the minister’s constituency, questioning why attention was being given to an anthem instead of improving road infrastructure and addressing the needs of residents.
Some critics also mocked the initiative, suggesting that if the minister was already releasing a personal anthem barely two years into the government’s tenure, Ghanaians might eventually expect a full music album before the end of the administration.
Despite the backlash, others defended Stonebwoy, arguing that musicians routinely produce campaign songs, promotional tracks and theme music for politicians, corporate organisations and public figures as part of their commercial work.
They stressed that the controversy should not be interpreted as criticism of the musician, who was simply offering a professional service.
The development has nevertheless reignited debate over the use of personal branding by public office holders and whether elected officials should embark on image-building initiatives while citizens continue to grapple with economic challenges, infrastructure deficits and recurring natural disasters.
