The Member of Parliament for Hohoe, Hon. Thomas Worlayo, has weighed in on the recent comment by a Zambian journalist who described President John Dramani Mahama’s smock (Fugu) as a “blouse” during a visit.
According to Hon. Worlayo, although the comment was widely seen as negative, it has surprisingly created positive awareness and renewed interest in Ghana’s traditional smock, popularly known as Fugu.
He explained that the remarks have helped draw international attention to the attire, leading to increased appreciation and demand for Fugu, especially from people in South Africa and Nigeria, while also boosting pride among producers in Ghana’s Northern Regions.
“Even though some people see the comment as an insult, it has actually helped promote our culture. Today, more people are ordering and wearing Fugu,” he noted.
Hon. Worlayo further pledged that he will wear only smock throughout the current parliamentary session, abandoning Western-style clothing as a personal commitment to promoting Ghanaian culture.
He made these remarks during an interview with Democracy News in Parliament, urging Ghanaians to take pride in their heritage.
“Let us be proud of our culture and tradition. Nigerians proudly wear their traditional attire wherever they go, regardless of the occasion. Why shouldn’t Ghana also proudly showcase Fugu?” he asked.
