If you thought politicians only belonged behind podiums and actors strictly on movie sets, AshantiFest 2026 had other plans.
The 15-day festival came to a lively close on Friday, May 1, with a fashion show at the Asokwa Interchange Gardens that felt more like a full-blown entertainment spectacle than a typical runway event. And honestly, no one saw it coming.
The crowd was already in high spirits, but things really took off when Dr Frank Amoakohene stepped onto the runway. The Ashanti Regional Minister, who also initiated the festival, walked with confidence and a bit of swagger, drawing loud cheers and setting the tone for the night. It was clear this wasn’t going to be your usual formal affair.
Then came Seid Mubarak, Member of Parliament for Sunyani East on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress, who matched the energy with his own stylish appearance. Not to be left out, Akwasi Gyamfi Onyina-Acheampong of the New Patriotic Party also hit the runway, adding a touch of friendly political balance to the show.
And just when you thought it couldn’t get more entertaining, Kumawood star Joseph Nana Osei Kofi, popularly known as Wayoosi, showed up and completely owned the moment. His lively walk had the crowd laughing, cheering and scrambling to record videos. It was one of those “you had to be there” moments.
The entire atmosphere was electric. People weren’t just watching fashion; they were watching personalities step out of their usual roles and have fun with it. It felt relaxed, relatable and, above all, very Ghanaian.
A video from the night shared on social media has since gone viral, with many Ghanaians reacting to the unexpected but refreshing crossover between politics and entertainment. For many, it was a reminder that public figures can connect with people in ways that go beyond speeches and screens.
AshantiFest itself is quickly carving out a name as one of Ghana’s most vibrant cultural events. Launched in 2025 by Dr Frank Amoakohene and supported by MTN Ghana, the festival brings together everything from street art and clean-up exercises to boxing, trade exhibitions and, clearly, memorable fashion shows.
With this year’s theme, “Our Stories, Our History, Our Culture,” the festival didn’t just talk about unity, it showed it. And if this grand finale is anything to go by, AshantiFest is only getting started.
