Former Ghanaian Ambassador to the India High Commission, Mr. Hon. Sam Pee Yalley admonished Members of Parliament and ministers to stay grounded, respect their constituents, and remain committed to delivering on their promises.
He outlined the disconnection between politicians and the electorate, emphasizing the need for humility, accountability, and commitment to public service.
Hon. Pee Yalley began by reflecting on how politicians often forget the essence of public service after gaining office.
“I have to remind you that you are serving the people,” he stated, highlighting the gap between promises made during campaigns and the reality of governance. He observed that after elections, politicians become engrossed in their privileges, losing sight of the voters who entrusted them with power.
Mr. Pee Yalley drew attention to the social contract that politicians sign with the electorate during campaigns. He stressed; “We go promising that when you elect me, I will solve your problems for you. I will do this, and that.’’
However, he lamented that many politicians are aware of their limited capacity to deliver on these promises but still make them. He warned against this practice, stating that such actions erode public trust and alienate citizens from the political process. He lamented;
“The woman, old lady, or young man goes to queue, fulfilling his part of the bargain to vote for you. When he does so, he puts his or her trust in you that the things you promised him or her, you are going to deliver.’’
Mr. Hon. Sam Pee Yalley Former Ghanaian Ambassador to India
Mr. Pee Yalley expressed concern over how some MPs neglect their constituents once in office. He shared examples of voters being ignored when they attempt to reach out to their representatives. He addressed;
“You come out of your office, your policeman is in front of you, you cock your gun, and then, ‘Hey, Minister is busy,’ and the constituents who brought you to that office are ruffled.’’
Mr. Hon. Sam Pee Yalley Former Ghanaian Ambassador to India
He further highlighted how some MPs fail to engage with their voters, stating that constituents often have to travel to Accra to meet their representatives.
Even then, they are sometimes dismissed. He stressed that such behavior undermines the trust between the electorate and their leaders.
In a poignant reminder to politicians, Mr. Pee Yalley underscored the power of the voter’s thumb. He explained that while politicians may enjoy privileges in office, they cannot control the electorate’s decision on election day.
He cautioned MPs against taking their strongholds for granted, reminding them that voters have the ultimate power to decide their fate. He emphasized;
“If it’s NDC or the Volta Region, no matter what we do, they’ll vote for us. Then you go to Ashanti and say, ‘Oh, they’ll vote for NPP.’ The person is going with his thumb.’’
Mr. Hon. Sam Pee Yalley Former Ghanaian Ambassador to India
Lessons from Parliament and Beyond
Reflecting on recent events in Parliament, Hon. Pee Yalley condemned the acrimonious nature of the 8th Parliament of MPs who resort to physical altercations. He noted that such conduct not only tarnishes the image of Parliament but also diminishes the public’s respect for the institution. He queried;
“Anytime they show those pictures of MPs fighting in Parliament, I see most of them are no longer in Parliament.’’
Mr. Hon. Sam Pee Yalley Former Ghanaian Ambassador to India
He urged MPs to conduct themselves with dignity and decorum, both inside and outside the chamber.
Moreover, Mr. Pee Yalley commended the President’s call for ministers to focus on improving the lives of Ghanaians rather than prioritizing electoral victory. He echoed this sentiment, urging politicians to design and implement impactful programs that address the needs of the populace.
Hon. Pee Yalley concluded his address by sharing three essential values for politicians.
“Be humble. Whatever God or society gives you to give, be humble about it. Work hard at it and be honest,” he advised. He emphasized that these values are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring effective governance. He urged them to bridge the gap between campaign promises and governance, engage meaningfully with their constituents, and remain humble and accountable.
His call for politicians to prioritize the well-being of Ghanaians over personal or partisan interests is a timely message for the nation’s leaders.
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