I really suffered when I went into politics – Maame Dokono

Seasoned Ghanaian actress and media personality, Grace Omaboe, better known by the Maame Dokono, recently opened up about the difficulties she faced during her foray into politics. 

The beloved figure in Ghana’s entertainment industry, ventured into politics with hopes of making a meaningful impact. However, she soon realized that the political landscape was vastly different from the world of entertainment.  She encountered numerous obstacles, including betrayal, intense scrutiny, and a relentless wave of personal attacks.

Speaking at the press launch of her  yet-to- be released memoir titled ‘The Unforgettable’, the legendary thespian described her experience in the political arena as one fraught with challenges and disappointments.

‘If you are in politics and your government doesn’t win it becomes a problem… I will say I joined the two parties and I really suffered…so because of what I am doing.. I decided not to do it again,”she said.

Rising to fame through her roles in the popular Akan Drama series Obra on GTV and as the host of By The Fire Side, Maame Dokono ventured into politics during the era of Jerry John Rawlings. Initially aligning herself with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) due to her connection with former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, she later switched her political allegiance to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) when Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo became the flagbearer in 2008. However, this decision led to significant backlash following the NPP’s electoral defeat.

As Maame Dokono approaches her 60th anniversary in the entertainment industry on September 7, 2024, she plans to celebrate with various activities, including a health screening and the launch of her book. Despite her past involvement in politics, she has now vowed to stay away from political engagements, expressing regret over the challenges she faced due to her political affiliations.