Akofa Edjeani Criticizes FDA’s Ban on Alcohol Advertising

Veteran actress Akofa Edjeani has expressed her discontent with the recent Supreme Court decision supporting the Food and Drug Authority’s (FDA) ban on celebrities endorsing alcoholic beverages.

The FDA issued guidelines for the advertisement of alcoholic beverages by public figures, published on February 1, 2016, stating, “No well-known personality or professional shall be used in alcoholic beverage advertising.”

The authority clarified that this guideline is intended to prevent minors from being encouraged by celebrities to consume alcohol.

Speaking on 3FM, Akofa Edjeani expressed her concerns about the FDA’s directive, criticizing the lack of adequate consultation before its implementation. She believes the FDA did not fully consider the implications of the guidelines.

“It’s unfortunate, and I don’t understand how learned men and women could arrive at this decision. I’m not convinced it was well thought through. Who did they consult from our industry? Who did they talk to before making this decision?”

“Advertising is still happening whether it’s by a celebrity or not. If someone wants to drink, they will drink. If they claim we’re influencing minors, they should provide proof,” she raised questions about the rationale behind the directive.

The FDA additionally pointed out that the ban is in line with a policy advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is part of initiatives aimed at safeguarding children and adolescents from being enticed into alcohol consumption.

A legal challenge was brought against the FDA’s directive, claiming it was unconstitutional and infringed upon the right against discrimination as guaranteed by Article 17 of the 1992 Constitution. On Wednesday, June 19, the Supreme Court ruled with a 5-2 majority to reject the case and uphold the FDA’s directive.

The court determined that the FDA’s directive was deemed neither unreasonable nor excessive, and it did not violate any constitutional provisions.