Lil Win defends new film on Burkina Faso’s leader
Popular Ghanaian actor and comedian Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known as Lil Win, has found himself at the center of heated public debate following the announcement of his upcoming film project titled “Ibrahim Traoré: The Last African Hero.” The film, produced by Wezzy Empire Film Productions, aims to explore the life of Burkina Faso’s current military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
The announcement has triggered mixed reactions on social media and within the entertainment industry, with critics questioning Lil Win’s capacity to deliver a narrative of such political and historical weight, given his comedic background. Others have expressed concern over the decision to highlight a controversial figure, who has been described by some as a terrorist.
In an official press statement issued by Wezzy Empire, Public Relations Officer Bossu Kule addressed the criticisms, emphasizing that the project is not about seeking fame or undermining anyone’s professional views. Instead, he defended Lil Win’s right to tell important African stories through film, regardless of his reputation for comedy.
The statement read: “The fact that he is a comedian does not disqualify him from telling serious stories. If comedy is the vessel through which this story can be told and understood by the masses, then so be it.”
Mr. Kule also responded to the argument that African filmmakers should only focus on local stories, calling such restrictions shortsighted. He referenced global films such as Hotel Rwanda, The Last King of Scotland, and Jojo Rabbit—which tackled complex and sometimes controversial historical figures—not to glorify them, but to explore, reflect, and educate.
“History, whether controversial or heroic, is still history. Telling that story through a local lens is not glorification; it is owning our own narrative,” Mr. Kule stated.
Addressing concerns about the portrayal of Captain Traoré, he urged audiences not to confuse the medium with the message, drawing comparisons to actors like Sacha Baron Cohen and Taika Waititi, who have portrayed infamous dictators in films intended to provoke thought and conversation
“Lil Win is an entertainer, not a military officer. He has every right to use film to spark dialogue,” he said.
The statement ended with a call for open-mindedness and patience, encouraging Ghanaians and Africans at large to wait for the film’s full release before forming judgments.
“Let us support the idea that African stories deserve to be told with courage, authenticity, pride, and most importantly, by us Africans,” Mr. Kule added.
