Renowned highlife musician Rex Owusu Marfo, popularly known as Rex Omar, has been endorsed by entertainment pundits Francis Doku and Kojo Preko Dankwah for the position of Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.
During a discussion on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning Show, Kojo Preko Dankwah, president of the Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP), highlighted Rex Omar’s extensive contributions to Ghana’s creative arts sector.
He pointed to his efforts in revitalizing the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO), his engagement with creatives across 12 of Ghana’s 16 regions, and his active role in the NDC’s 2024 campaign as key qualifications for the role.
“This man worked tirelessly to unite creatives across the country and was instrumental in the NDC’s creative arts agenda during the campaign,” Mr. Dankwah said.
“He is the right person to assist the minister-designate, Dzifa Gomashie, in managing the ministry’s affairs.”
Although Mr. Dankwah initially hoped Rex Omar would lead the ministry, he expressed optimism about the deputy position. He emphasized that Rex Omar’s hands-on experience with the NDC’s Black Star Experience manifesto and his contributions to party policies make him a strong candidate for the role.
Francis Doku, Chief Operations Officer of Plugin Digital Limited, shared similar sentiments. However, he noted that the deputy ministerial position might suit Rex Omar better, given his creative arts-focused expertise.
“The ministry encompasses more than creative arts, and the president might have wanted someone with a broader perspective for the top role,” Doku explained.
Despite facing criticism during his tenure as GHAMRO president, both pundits believe Rex Omar performed admirably and would complement the leadership of minister-designate Dzifa Gomashie.
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Member of Parliament for Ketu South, as Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.