|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The Ghanaian government has repatriated veteran musician Isaac Obeng Mensah, popularly known as Barosky, from the United Kingdom following growing concerns about his welfare and a distressing video of him that circulated widely on social media.
Barosky arrived safely in Ghana on Monday night, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The Minister said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs fully funded the musician’s repatriation as part of its consular responsibilities towards Ghanaians who find themselves in difficult circumstances abroad.
The government, he added, is also providing psychosocial support and financial assistance to help Barosky reintegrate into society following his return to Ghana.
Government Responds to Public Concern
The intervention followed growing public concern over the veteran musician’s condition after videos showing him in Manchester attracted significant attention online.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the government became aware of Barosky’s situation after members of the public, including media personality Nana Romeo, brought his plight to the attention of the authorities.
“We are most grateful to our fellow citizens, particularly Nana Romeo, for bringing Barosky’s heart-wrenching plight in Manchester to our attention,” the Minister said in a Facebook post.
Mr Ablakwa also commended Ghana’s High Commission in the UK for its role in coordinating the intervention and facilitating the musician’s return.
Ghana High Commission Intervenes
The Ghana High Commission in the United Kingdom became involved after Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK, Sabah Zita Benson, travelled to Manchester to meet Barosky and members of the Ghanaian community.
The visit followed several messages received by the mission concerning the musician’s condition.
Mrs Benson indicated that the High Commission was prepared to facilitate Barosky’s return to Ghana if that was his preference.
She also acknowledged his contribution to Ghanaian music and called for collective support to help him rebuild his life.
“Barosky has contributed immensely to Ghanaian music, and we all need to come together as a community to help him get back on his feet,” she said.
Government Promises Continued Support
The repatriation forms part of the government’s broader consular responsibility to assist Ghanaian citizens who encounter serious difficulties while living abroad.
Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Ghanaians in distress, stressing that authorities would continue to intervene where necessary.
“We strive to leave no Ghanaian behind,” he said.
The government’s decision to support Barosky’s return has been welcomed amid renewed discussions about the welfare of veteran Ghanaian musicians and the need for stronger support systems for creatives who have contributed to the country’s entertainment industry.
With Barosky now back in Ghana, the government says psychosocial and financial assistance will be provided to support his reintegration.
His case has also highlighted the importance of community members, media personalities and Ghanaian diplomatic missions working together when citizens abroad face difficult circumstances.
