THE “Makamillion” of entertainment is bringing his star power to the political arena.
Entertainer-turned-politician John Michael Alibocus, known in the industry as the promoter Makamillion, The Great White and Makaveli, has embarked on a campaign of love in the San Fernando East constituency as he seeks to wrest that stronghold from the People’s National Movement (PNM) and bring it home to the United National Congress (UNC).
His experience as a promoter and manager of several night clubs has equipped him with the marketing and campaign skills necessary to pull off a victory.
In his bid to win, he has enlisted the help of fellow artistes such as Swappi (Marvin Davis) and Kerry John, among others he would have managed in the past, to attract the Gen Z and millennial voters. Swappi is the mastermind behind his campaign song.
The youths need guidance, Alibocus quipped.
[caption id="attachment_1148929" align="alignnone" width="683"] Entertainer-turned-politician John Michael Alibocus has embarked on a campaign of love in the San Fernando East constituency, hoping to wrest that stronghold from the People’s National Movement for the United National Congress. -[/caption]
Known for his bold, colourful suits and long locks, Makamillion, who is also a dancehall and soca artiste, is using this creative endeavour to draw attention to his campaign and party.
Every area in the constituency the artistes have touched down, the response has been overwhelming and welcoming.
“It is mega. Everywhere it's love and hugs. People are taking selfies, surprised that artistes they see from a distance on a stage could come on the ground, not on the musical or entertainment level, but as ambassadors to serve the people.”
The entire four decades of his life has been influenced by service to others, coming from a family background of businesspeople – The Attongs on his maternal side, who pioneered and managed Charlie’s Pudding for almost a century, and his father, who was a well-known doctor of homeopathy and eastern medicine in San Fernando.
As a relatively young man, he said, “I understand the Gen Z’s and the millennial. My appeal, my approach is different. I intend to be the realness of politics. I love to dress in fashionably loud suits, I like to wear my shades and stuff, but don’t get sidetracked by that because you know the scripture says to render your hearts and not your garment.”
With a slogan of "love, love, love, love, love, love," he uses as a standard greeting, Makamillion is confident the responses received can be translated into votes.
“Love conquers all,” he said in an interview with the Newsday.
“God told me I would be a child of love and everyday day I see my purpose and remain committed to helping those who are lost find their one true purpose, which is unconditional love.”
A deeply-spiritual person, Makamillion’s campaign theme is also reflective of his belief.
“My campaign, The One Campaign, is inspired by God. I got up out of my bed from a dream to bring back the people as one.
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