Alexander Afenyo-Markin is the Minority Leader and Effutu MP
The Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has opened up about what appears to be the post-government struggles faced by many politicians, particularly legislators.
Addressing key personalities at the 5th Annual Constitution Day Public Lecture on February 28, 2025, the politician stated that many parliamentarians, as well as ministers of state who have the opportunity to serve, remain poor despite serving for years.
According to him, the reality of the poor financial state of many legislators is surprising, especially given the widespread public perception that politicians are wealthy and corrupt.
He went on to say that the perception of politicians, particularly Members of Parliament, as corrupt is inaccurate, pointing out that many of these individuals have little to boast about in terms of personal wealth or assets.
The Effutu lawmaker highlighted that successful lawmakers are those who, in his view, are entrepreneurs and continue to actively practice their professions even after their time in public service.
“I’ve had the opportunity of seeing former legislators, ministers of state and believe me, some of them when you see them, you’d ask if they were in really in public life and what happened to their money.
“… Perhaps the very politicians who are entrepreneurs who have practised their profession are the ones you see surviving but many politicians, contrary to the view that they are so corrupt are very poor, especially legislators. You can see them after office and you would wonder,” he said.
The lawmaker disclosed this while speaking on the issue of corruption and state capture by individuals who, upon having the opportunity to serve in government, exploit their positions for personal gain.
MAG/EK
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