Franklin Cudjoe, the Founding President and CEO of the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, has expressed his concerns following the appointment of highlife musician Rex Omar as the presidential staffer for the “Blackstar Experience.” Rex Omar, whose real name is Rex Owusu Marfo, is known for his contributions to the highlife music genre.
The “Blackstar Experience” is an initiative introduced by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government. It aims to highlight Ghana’s cultural heritage, celebrate African creativity, and foster national pride and unity. The project will feature events, festivals, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges, all designed to showcase the diversity and richness of Ghanaian arts and culture. As outlined in the NDC’s manifesto, the Blackstar Experience is intended to become the country’s flagship initiative in culture, arts, and tourism, making Ghana a preferred destination for global tourism.
Despite its ambitions, the Blackstar Experience has sparked considerable discussion, especially on social media, with many Ghanaians expressing unfamiliarity with the project. Some members of the public feel that Rex Omar, who played a pivotal role during the lead-up to the presidential and parliamentary elections, deserves a higher-profile position.
In response to the appointment, Cudjoe took to Facebook to question the nature of the Blackstar Experience, expressing confusion about its scope and purpose. He wrote, “What is the Black Star Experience? A festival or a memorable round trip to somewhere on a Ship? Rex Omar.” His post resonates with many who are still unclear about the project’s objectives and what Omar’s role will entail.
Source