Ex President Jerry John Rawling
Ex President Jerry John Rawlings has tasked musicians to join in the fight against corruption and other social ills by using their songs to crusade against these ills. Mr Rawlings gave the advice when a delegation from the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) and the family of the late Paapa Yankson paid a courtesy call on him to inform him of the death of the late singer.
According to President Rawlings, President Nana Akufo-Addo needs the support of all and sundry to prosecute the war against corruption. He said that just as Paapa Yankson had used his talents to sing about social ills and issues of concern to the Ghanaian society, the current crop of musicians should be at the forefront of the fight against corruption.
He said issues of sanitation and health should concern musicians and other members of the creative arts who should use their skills and voices to drive social change. He bemoaned the decline in sanitary conditions in the country and applauded moves by the AMA to clamp down on insanitary conditions in the metropolis.
On his part the ex-President’s Special Assistant Kobina Andoh eulogized the late Paapa Yankson describing him as great entertainer who knew how to woo an audience adding that even at the height of hiplife and other genres, Paapa Yankson’s songs still excite audiences. He indicated that Paapa Yankson will be forever remembered through his music which will stand the test of time.
Dr Tony Yao Dzegede an associate of the former President expressed the sympathies of the Office of the ex President to the family and called on Ghanaians to cherish the memory of Paapa Yankson for the unique music he gave us. He charged the current generation of musicians to strive to leave a lasting legacy and touch the lives of their listeners through their music.
Rev Dr Thomas Yawson who led the MUSIGA delegation informed the ex President that a one week celebration will be held for Paapa Yankson in Dansoman on Friday and thanked ex President Rawlings for the warm welcome accorded the delegation.
The delegation comprised the Greater Accra Regional chairman of MUSIGA, Ras Caleb Appiah Levi, his vice Elizabeth Tagoe; Bright Quaye, Greater Regional organizer; Rev Fiifi Khan Agyarkwah, Administrator and Lydia Tagoe of the Tagoe Sisters fame. Other members of the MUSIGA delegation were Rev Gifty Ghansah, Greater Accra Welfare Officer, Alex Odoi; C. K Morrison, a veteran musician and Ahuma Bosco Ocansey, Director of Communications and Special Projects. The family of Paapa Yankson was represented by his son Silas Yankson, Kwabena Ebo Basah, Mrs Alice Mensah and Emmanuel B
