The New Ghana Social Justice Forum, a human rights organization, has urgently petitioned the French National Olympic and Sports Committee and the organizers of the Africa Fan Zone event to exclude Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie from its performance lineup.
The event is scheduled for August 9 at Stade Robert Cesar in France as part of the cultural activities accompanying the Olympic Games.
The forum’s petition argues that Sarkodie’s participation would contradict principles of gender equality and respect for women.
The group cites lyrics from Sarkodie’s feature on the song “Jennifer Lomotey” by Kurl Songx, which they claim exhibit misogynistic sentiments.
In the song, Sarkodie makes a reference to Krobo women and promiscuity, suggesting that they have been cursed with infidelity. The group interprets these lyrics as reflecting a broader pattern of misogynistic attitudes, a serious issue that cannot be overlooked.
Additionally, the petition points to Sarkodie’s recent controversy involving actress Yvonne Nelson. In her memoir “I Am Not Yvonne Nelson,” Nelson alleged that Sarkodie pressured her into an abortion and subsequently disparaged her publicly. The group condemned Sarkodie’s response to these allegations as insensitive and disrespectful towards women.
In a statement released on July 25, the New Ghana Social Justice Forum expressed concern that allowing Sarkodie to perform at the Africa Fan Zone would send a negative message regarding gender equality and respect for women. They strongly urged the event’s organizers to consider these concerns and act accordingly, emphasizing the importance of their decision.
The forum’s petition follows an earlier letter sent to the French Embassy in Ghana on July 8, which echoed similar concerns.
In response, the French Embassy affirmed its commitment to human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment.
The embassy emphasized that the Africa Fan Zone is an independent event and that the French National Olympic and Sports Committee does not support any form of discrimination.
“The Embassy of France in Ghana, along with the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, is dedicated to promoting human rights and gender equality in all our projects and partnerships,” the embassy’s letter stated. “We do not endorse actions that undermine these values.”
The New Ghana, Social Justice Forum’s petition, highlights ongoing debates over gender representation and respect within cultural and public events, reflecting broader societal discussions on these issues.
