The swift shifts in political allegiance can be astonishing. Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar, initially emerged as a beacon of hope for many Ghanaian youths who saw him as a potential savior from the failures of the entrenched political duopoly. However, recent developments have starkly contrasted with that initial promise.
Last year, during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstrations, Cheddar stood alongside Ghana’s youth, expressing solidarity with their calls for change.
On September 21, 2023, he shared a video praising the courage of the young demonstrators, stating, “I have been following the activities and events happening in Ghana, and I must say it’s very encouraging.
I am extremely proud of the youth demonstrating courage. This is what we have been waiting for us all to stand up as one people, one country, and one nation to let our voices be heard.
You have my support, and I stand with you. Remember, the people made the government; the government can’t make the people.”
Fast forward less than a year, and Cheddar has dramatically altered his stance regarding the arrests of innocent youths and a pregnant woman during the protests.
He now labels them as “violent” and suggests their actions are orchestrated by Ghana’s two main political parties.
This shift raises critical questions: How can someone who once celebrated youth activism now dismiss their efforts? Is this change of heart driven by newfound political aspirations, or has he become part of the establishment he once opposed?
Furthermore, it is crucial to scrutinize the implications of Cheddar’s recent statements about the protests.
While he condemns actions like pulling down billboards and burning electoral posters, one must question whether these actions are truly more criminal than the police’s violation of the 48-hour rule for arrests, as stipulated in Article 14(3) of the Constitution. Cheddar also appears indifferent to the pressing environmental crises caused by illegal mining.
This abrupt shift in his position reveals a troubling reality: his genuine interest in the youth’s plight may have always been superficial.
It is essential for Ghanaian youth to recognize that he is not a true advocate for their needs. His current focus seems solely on securing a place on the ballot, leaving behind the very voices he once claimed to support.
Perhaps most disheartening is his turn against those fighting for essential environmental protections.
Young activists advocating against illegal mining which threatens our forests and contaminates our water are now unjustly labeled as criminals.
Does Cheddar genuinely believe that those demanding clean water and a sustainable future are less deserving of support than those contributing to environmental degradation?
Additionally, his campaign has featured dubious claims, such as concoctions that could supposedly make short individuals taller.
Such statements raise serious concerns about his credibility and the integrity required in a national leader.
If accountability is due, it should not fall on the activists, but rather on Cheddar himself, who has seemingly betrayed the values he once espoused.
Ghanaian youth must remain vigilant.
We cannot afford to be swayed by individuals who exploit our aspirations for personal gain.
Cheddar’s recent actions illustrate a clear disconnect from the interests of the youth.
While leaders may have failed us, we must exercise discernment and not be led astray by those who have already shown their true loyalties.
Our future depends on our ability to remain informed, united, and wise in our choices. The time for critical engagement is now.
The battle is far from over! #StopGalamseyNow #FreetheCitizens
Emmanuel Ofosu-Addoh
Youth Activist
