Former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu, has publicly stated he is open to bringing the sensational artiste Shatta Wale into the party’s fold, arguing that the star’s massive influence is key to connecting with Ghana’s youth.
Speaking on Joy News on November 11, 2025, Boadu underscored the critical need for the NPP to engage with young Ghanaians, especially as they are projected to form a significant voting bloc in the 2028 elections.
He believes that reaching the youth requires abandoning traditional political tactics and embracing cultural figures who genuinely resonate with them.
When asked directly about a potential role for the “Gringo” hitmaker, Boadu responded, “If possible, why not? You can get other people out as well.”
Boadu clarified that his vision for a partnership with Shatta Wale wasn’t about the musician appearing at political rallies. Instead, it would focus on a more subtle and organic form of communication.
“Not necessarily a hard campaign, but passing through our messages,” he explained.
He emphasized that the strategy is about meeting young people where they are—on their platforms and channels of interest—rather than forcing them onto traditional political stages. “I am saying it is not even necessary to have them at your rallies. You need to tap into their interests and not necessarily bring them onto political platforms,” he noted.
Reflecting on the 2024 elections, Boadu admitted that while the party used songs by both Shatta Wale and King Paluta, it wasn’t enough, stressing the need to “do more of that by nurturing these youthful people.”
The former General Secretary concluded that youth engagement goes deeper than just entertainment or appointments. He argued that many young voters are simply seeking recognition and a sense of belonging within the political structure.
“Many just need recognition. They need that sense of belonging to the party so they feel valued, even as reviewers of your programs and policies,” he said.
