Mark Darlington Osae, a Ghanaian music executive and publisher based in the United Kingdom, expressed disappointment in the Supreme Court’s verdict regarding the ban on the promotion of alcoholic beverages by celebrities.
The court upheld the directive by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) which prohibits well-known personalities from endorsing alcoholic drinks.
The Supreme Court ruling, delivered by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, stated that the FDA’s directive does not violate the constitution. This decision marks the end of a nineteen-month legal battle initiated by Mark Darlington Osae against the Authority.
In a statement to Joy FM, Mark Darlington Osae shared his disappointment with the 5-2 ruling in favor of the FDA. He emphasized the importance of challenging laws and directives that affect the creative arts space, encouraging others to stand up for their rights within the industry.
Following the verdict, the FDA affirmed its commitment to enforcing the ban and preventing celebrities from circumventing the order. However, a representative from the Ghana Music Alliance vowed to continue advocating against the directive.
The legal battle began in 2015 when the FDA implemented regulations to curb the promotion of alcohol in Ghana. Celebrities, including Wendy Shay, Shatta Wale, and Kuami Eugene, have criticized the ban, highlighting its impact on their livelihoods. Mark Darlington Osae’s lawsuit argued that the FDA’s directive discriminates against individuals in the creative arts industry and violates constitutional rights to equality before the law.
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision, Mark Darlington Osae sees the case as a win for initiating dialogue and encouraging others to challenge laws that hinder the progress of the creative sector.
He believes that test cases like this are essential for clarity and interpretation of laws affecting the industry.
