Women’s Groups have launched a spirited campaign to have Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie removed from the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games.
They argued the singer does not deserve to be promoted on such a huge platform given his history of misogynistic lyrics and controversial statements.
In an open letter addressed to the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, Yahaya Alhassan, President of a women’s advocacy group, condemned the decision of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee to feature Sarkodie, real name Michael Owusu Addo.
He cited specific examples from his past work that are se disrespectful to women.
The letter referenced Sarkodie’s song ‘Jennifer Lomotey,’ which includes a derogatory portrayal of Krobo women from Ghana’s Eastern Region.
The song refers to a folklore involving a curse of promiscuity, which has been widely criticized for perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Alhassan also cited Sarkodie’s public feud with Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson.
In her memoir ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson,’ the actress detailed her struggles growing up without a father figure and her relationship with Sarkodie, who allegedly pressured her to abort their child.
In response to her revelations, Sarkodie released a diss track titled ‘Try Me,’ which included derogatory and insensitive remarks towards Nelson.
“The Olympic Games have always been a platform to uphold human rights, promote women’s development, and set standards for human dignity.”
”Honouring Sarkodie with such a prominent platform is a direct contradiction to these values and an insult to women, particularly those who have been marginalized and disrespected,” the letter states.
Alhassan argued that Sarkodie’s appearance at the Olympics sends a concerning message, especially in African communities striving for gender equality and respect for women.
The letter, which has been circulated to various diplomatic missions, human rights organizations, women’s organizations, and media outlets, calls for a reconsideration of Sarkodie’s participation in the opening ceremony.
The advocacy group urges the French National Olympic and Sports Committee to uphold the values of the Olympic movement by promoting artists who embody respect and equality.
The Summer Olympics run from 26 July to 11 August, with 10,500 athletes competing in 329 events. The Paralympics take place from 28 August to 8 September, featuring 4,400 athletes in 549 events.
