By Valentia Tetteh
The Minister-designate of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has advised the youth to establish stable careers before pursuing a full-time career in politics.
Speaking during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 20, 2023, Kwame Agbodza shared insights into the financial realities of being a politician.
He pointed out the significant expenses associated with constituency responsibilities, which often outweigh the incomes earned from public office.
Mr. Agbodza emphasized the importance of having a steady income stream, as the salary of a Member of Parliament is hardly enough to cover the numerous expenses that come with the role. This, he explained, would provide the financial stability necessary to navigate the high demands of political life.
“In my own life, the resources I spend in my constituency, the bulk of it does not come from my political salary. As you know, my salary is GHc15,000 cedis. By the time I finish my weekend funeral rounds, I must have spent all of that. The rest comes from my consultancy work and other small ventures,” he explained.
Agbodza emphasized that political office alone is insufficient to sustain the financial obligations expected of politicians, particularly in rural and underprivileged communities where many residents look to their representatives for support.
Mr. Agbodza’s counsel to young politicians is to secure a sustainable profession before entering politics. “Perhaps, it will be easier to establish a profession before you enter politics,” he said.
