The Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea, has characterized being an MP as one of the most challenging roles in politics.
The former Minister for Works and Housing expressed concern about the substantial and unconventional responsibilities that accompany the position.
During an interview on Citi TV’s Face to Face with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Atta Akyea lamented the constant individual demands placed on MPs by their constituents, often at the expense of collective development and progress.
Describing the situation, he stated, “As if you [MPs] were called to solve mass poverty,” emphasizing the persistent demands from constituents across the country.
Reflecting on his own experience, Atta Akyea suggested that after 16 years, it might be a suitable time to retire from such a demanding role.
He highlighted the unique challenges faced by Members of Parliament, describing it as the most arduous vocation in politics.
He noted the continuous individual demands on MPs by their constituencies, citing examples such as being asked to purchase a coffin for a family in connection with a deceased individual they may not even know.
“As if you [MPs] were called to solve mass poverty,” Mr. Atta Akyea bemoned the unceasing demands of constituents across the country.
“I believe 16 years is a good enough time to hang up your gloves. I am not a young man. There is no more serious undertaking in politics than to become a Member of Parliament. I believe becoming a Member of Parliament is the most difficult vocation anybody can pursue; as if you were called to solve mass poverty, incessant individual demands on the MP by the constituency.”
“For example, how do you feel about buying a coffin for a family in relation to a deceased individual you don’t even know?”