Kafui Dey has suggested introducing seat fillers, particularly university students living close to the event venue, as a practical solution to help address delays during the Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FM on March 28, 2026, while reviewing the standard of hosting at the awards over the years, the broadcaster acknowledged the progress made so far but pointed out that late starts is a key issue that needs attention.
According to Kafui Dey, international awards shows like the Academy Awards and the Grammy Awards use seat fillers and he believes this is something that Charterhouse could consider adopting to improve the timing and smooth running of events.
“What doesn’t help them [the MCs of the TGMA] is that the event doesn’t start on time. I don’t know why our organisers can’t start employing students from UPSA, UniMAC and UG to be placeholders.
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“With the Oscars and the Grammys they give free tickets to the student population around the venue. Your brief is to come to the venue in your tuxedo, suit, the women in their gowns, look beautiful, sit in the seats that are empty.
“If the event starts at 8 o’clock and it is only half-full, the students will fill the seats. So when the stars come, they get up for them to sit down,” he said.
When asked whether he would consider hosting the TGMA in the future, he indicated his readiness if given the chance.
“If they call me I will do it. I have done concerts. I did a concert at the Polo Grounds not too long ago. This was Panji Anoff’s event. He was the producer, he called me on, and I enjoyed it. I am a music person so I enjoy music events and I am an MC too, so if TGMA wants to bring me on, I won’t refuse it,” he said.
Over the years, organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards have faced consistent backlash for delays in starting the ceremony, which often runs into the early hours of the next day.
AK/EB
