Ghanaian singer Wendy Shay has clarified the reasons behind her recent visit to a the Ga Mantse traditional palace and why she declined a drink that was offered to her during the encounter.
In an interview on Okay FM, she explained that her visit was motivated by respect for traditional authority, noting that she had performed on the chief’s land on several occasions and felt it was appropriate to pay homage.
“I went to the palace because that was the 3rd time I was doing a show on his land so I felt it was right for me to go and see him. I do believe everything has a head. There’s a leader and a head everywhere you find yourself so you need to give that respect,” she said.
Her explanation followed public discussion about why she declined a drink offered by elders during the visit. Wendy Shay clarified that the issue had nothing to do with disrespect but was based strictly on medical advice.
“What was offered to me wasn’t water. I think it was Schnapp and I had taken medicine. I wasn’t supposed to take in alcohol or anything alcoholic due to the medication I was on.
“It wasn’t as if I was disrespecting them and I really respect traditions. Because I had a show coming up, I needed to be fit, that’s why my doctor instructed me not to take alcohol.
“My doctor strictly instructed me not to even let alcohol on my tongue that’s why I rejected it.”
She also addressed speculation about her attitude, stressing that her personality and her work do not align with claims of arrogance.
“I’m not arrogant at all. Everyone knows I’m so welcoming and friendly. The job I do comes with me being welcoming and allowing people to get close to me so if I’m arrogant, I wouldn’t be able to do it,” she added.
