Afua Asantewaa, the Ghanaian media personality and Guinness World Record (GWR) attempt holder for the longest singing marathon, has been advised to appreciate her team rather than publicly criticizing them. This follows recent statements she made that seemingly put her support team in a negative light.
In an interview, Afua Asantewaa suggested that lapses from her team contributed to her unsuccessful attempt to break the world record. Her remarks have sparked reactions from the public, with many urging her to acknowledge the efforts of those who worked tirelessly to support her challenge.
Industry stakeholders and fans have taken to social media to express their concerns, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in such endeavors. Some argue that while there may have been setbacks, publicly blaming her team could affect her credibility and future collaborations.
One of her team members, Lamisi Awinongya, expressed her disappointment over the situation, urging Afua Asantewaa to be grateful for the support she received.
“You had the goodwill of the people of Ghana from home and abroad. From the beginning of your attempt to the end, your hardworking team, which I was an instrumental part of, supported you. We sacrificed our services, time, and other resources to benefit you. Be grateful to the very team that stood by you from day one,” Lamisi said.
She added, “Appreciate every support that came your way. Good reputation pays. On this note, I, Lamisi Awinongya, haven’t taken any money from any individual or group during the Sing-a-Thon. It’s unfortunate that it has to get to this. You can attest to it that I wouldn’t have done this, but I have family and loved ones. Thank you, please stop this already.”
A section of the public believes that even though Afua Asantewaa’s concerns might be valid, addressing them in a more constructive and private manner would have been ideal. Others have advised her to reflect on the entire experience, appreciate her supporters, and make improvements for future attempts.
Afua Asantewaa’s singing marathon, which gained widespread attention both locally and internationally, saw significant support from various individuals, organizations, and well-wishers. Despite falling short of securing the world record, she was praised for her resilience and determination.
Many now hope that she will take the feedback in good stride, mend any rifts within her camp, and continue to work towards future successes with a united front.
Background
Afua Asantewaa, in an interview on Accra FM, stated that she did not receive any cash donation from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Contrary to claims that she received huge donations from the previous government, Lamisi stated that no member of her team ever provided her with an account of any donations received during her participation in the Sing-a-Thon contest.
Afua claimed that all she received was medicine for her sore throat, which she directly received from the former vice president.
Shortly after, the National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, reiterated that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former NPP flagbearer, indeed donated GH¢20,000 to support her Sing-a-Thon.
Socrate Safo, the former Director of Creative Arts at the National Commission on Culture, also labelled her as ungrateful and accused her of lying.
Later, in her Instagram story, Afua Asantewaa accused Socrate Safo of being deceitful and taking advantage of her hard work.
Subsequently on UTV, while clarifying that her team only informed her about the donation on Saturday evening, Afua alleged that Socrate took GH¢10,000 out of the GH¢20,000 for claiming he had brought the vice president to her.