Member of Parliament for Zebilla, Cletus Avoka, has lamented the challenges faced by lawmakers, indicating unreasonable demands from the public and constituents.
In an interview with Starr FM, Avoka highlighted the financial pressures MPs face, particularly due to constant requests for financial assistance for various needs such as healthcare expenses, wedding contributions, and school fees.
Avoka disclosed that these demands make it difficult for MPs to avoid engaging in corrupt activities, as many find themselves using their positions for business rather than focusing on legislative duties.
He emphasized the need for understanding from the media regarding the financial pressures faced by MPs, noting that these pressures contribute to the perception of corruption in the Legislature.
“Everyday MoMo. Everyday MoMo. Somebody is sick and has to go to the hospital, you have to send money, somebody is going to do a wedding you have to send money, they are going to do outdooring, they are asking for you. They are asking for school fees and whatnot.
“Many of us lose the election or Primaries not because we are not doing well but because we’re not giving money out. How do you give money out if you come and stay in parliament for 8 hours debating? You’re debating for 5 or 8 hours, you go home in the evening to sleep, and the following day you have no money to send. You have to go out and look for the money.”
When questioned about whether this situation justifies the claim that all MPs are corrupt, Avoka agreed, stressing that to retain their positions, MPs often have to seek additional resources, which can lead to engaging in external activities to generate income.
“If I’m not corrupt, how can I maintain my seat? You have to be corrupt in one way or another. You have to look for more resources. If you have to look for more resources, you have to go out and do some work for a contractor. As a lawyer, maybe prepare a bill, or do this and that and whatnot? So I have half attention here, and half attention outside because I need more resources to be able to maintain my seat.”
The black man will forever prove why he or she is inferior in mentality and useless.Africa can never make it.I really understand the mentality of the black man.We don’t care a hoot about our terrible situation.We hv became used to suffering, hardship and poverty.