Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, Andy Appiah Kubi, has spoken out against the increasing monetization of politics, warning that it is “destroying our democracy”.

Speaking on Metro TV’s Inside Pages show on Saturday, May 4, 2024, Appiah Kubi lamented that the expectation from constituents to provide financial rewards in exchange for political support is crippling parliamentarians.

“You will not go to your constituency with money and come back with nothing, not even money to buy fuel. So, now you have to fill your tank before going” he told the host, Moro Awdu

Mr. Appiah Kubi emphasized that MPs are not as wealthy as perceived by Ghanaian electorates, insisting that “Some of my colleagues are really suffering, especially if you don’t have any side job. At least, I am a lawyer, you see.”

Mr. Appiah Kubi attributed the problem to the misconception that becoming an MP is a means to wealth. He called for concerted and deliberate effort in educating the public on the subject of vote buying and vote selling.

“We need to educate citizens that going to parliament is not a way to make money,” he stressed.

He expressed hope that a time will come when citizens will understand the harm caused by demanding money in exchange for votes, and that parliamentarians can serve without financial burdens.

“We need to be intentional about letting citizens know that this act is crippling and destroying our democracy,” Appiah Kubi urged.

His comments have come as an addition to the voices of conscience that have called for a conversation about the need for political reform and the importance of addressing the monetization of politics to ensure a healthier democracy.

By: Bright Yao Dzakah | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana