By Kruah Thompson
Liberian film artist-turned politician, Frank Artus, known for his remarkable performances on the silver screen, says he is not using his celebrity status to secure votes in Electoral District#7, Montserrado County, but rather his capacity to genuinely represent the people, not on the basis of stardom.
“I want you to look at me as someone who has brought pride to the country and I’m willing to also make this district proud that other lawmakers will see the difference”, ” he notes.
The Liberian artist well known in the entertainment industry in West Africa, has decided to embark on a political journey in Liberia, but unlike some celebrities, who use their fame as a campaign strategy, Artus says he is taking a humble and down-to-earth approach.
In a recent interview, he stated that his goal is to connect with the people of District#7 on a personal level, to understand their needs, and to represent them to the best of his ability.
“If I had the ability to pass my first bill in the House of Representatives, it will be a bill on the protection, preservation, and provision of our cultural norms and values.” He added.
He recalls that when Liberians found joy in television programs like ‘Balawala’ and ‘Three is a Crowd,’ they celebrated their own culture with pride. But today, their increased consumption of content from Nigeria and Ghana has reached a point where it affects their marriages.
“There’s no marriage in Liberia that does not portray a Nigerian or a Guinean culture, we need to prioritize Liberian culture”, he underscores.
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Artus laments that Liberians seem to have adopted foreign customs to an extent that even school uniforms are being imported, rather than supporting local tailors.
He wonders if Liberian culture is similarly embraced in other countries like it is being done here.
The Representative Candidate says his approach underscores his commitment to representing residents of District 7 with a focus on their well-being and the district’s unique cultural heritage.
Artus achieved widespread fame in Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, with numerous movie appearances that garnered him a substantial following across Africa and the African diaspora.
Despite his Nollywood success, Frank maintains a strong connection to his Liberian roots.
Returning home, he became a pivotal figure in the burgeoning Liberian film industry, both as an actor and producer, significantly contributing to the growth of the local movie scene.
He has received numerous awards and nominations for his acting prowess, cementing his status as a highly respected African movie icon. Beyond his acting career, he has actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors, leveraging his platform to support various causes within Liberia and beyond.
He currently runs as an independent candidate under the “Movement for Frank Artus ‘Da Our Own” ticket in District 7, Montserrado County.
The shift from entertainment to politics according to him, underscores his desire to extend his influence into the realm of governance and public service, marking a new chapter in his remarkable journey.
However, on September 7, 2023, Artus was spotted alongside his wife at the CDC campaign launch, showing support for incumbent President George Weah’s second-term bid. Editing by Jonathan Browne
