Ghanaian politicians face intense public scrutiny and receive numerous calls daily, making it challenging to respond to every one, according to Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Eric Edem Agbana. In a Facebook post, Agbana shared his personal experience, revealing that during a four-hour meeting, his phone received 65 missed calls. He emphasized that behind every missed call is often someone seeking help or intervention.
Agbana's comments come after his colleague, Madina MP Francis-Xavier Sosu, collapsed while delivering a speech at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) on September 24. Sosu had been scheduled to attend the event after initially asking Agbana to represent the NDC. Agbana expressed concern for Sosu's well-being, wishing him a speedy recovery and advising him to prioritize his health.
The pressure of public service can be overwhelming, with politicians receiving hundreds of calls and thousands of messages daily, Agbana explained. He shared a personal health scare, where he almost lost his life due to neglecting his health while attending to his duties. His wife's words of caution - that he is replaceable as a politician but not as a husband and father - had a profound impact on him.
Agbana emphasized that leaders are human beings who get tired, fall sick, and have families waiting at home, yet the demands on them never stop. He appealed to the public to be patient with those in public service, noting that a missed call does not always mean someone does not care. Rather, it may simply mean that the person is overwhelmed with other pressing matters.
The Ketu North MP advised his colleagues in public service to learn to pause and prioritize their well-being. He stressed that while constituents, parties, and the country need them, their families also require their presence and care. Agbana's comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the demands of public service and the need for politicians to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Sosu's office and Parliament have confirmed that he is in stable condition and responding to treatment. Parliament has also appealed to the public to desist from circulating the video of the incident. Agbana's Facebook post has been met with an outpouring of support for Sosu and a renewed focus on the challenges faced by Ghanaian politicians.
As Ghanaian politicians navigate the complexities of public service, Agbana's words serve as a timely reminder of the importance of prioritizing one's health and well-being. By sharing his personal experiences and insights, Agbana hopes to promote a greater understanding of the demands faced by those in public office and encourage a more empathetic and supportive public discourse.
Key points
- Ghanaian politicians face intense public scrutiny and receive numerous calls daily, making it challenging to respond to every one.
- The pressure of public service can be overwhelming, with politicians often neglecting their health and well-being.
- Politicians and the public must work together to promote a healthier and more sustainable approach to public service.
