The Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Honourable Rex Asanga, has shared valuable advice for young politicians, emphasizing the importance of patience, relationship-building, and adaptability in leadership. He underscored the need to understand the complexities of governance and to learn from experience when stepping into political roles.
Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, Hon. Asanga cautioned new leaders against expecting immediate results upon assuming office. Reflecting on his own journey, he revealed that his initial expectations were unrealistic, as he had underestimated the distinct challenges of the political landscape. He urged emerging leaders to take the time to grasp the intricacies of the system and to adjust their strategies for better outcomes.
“One of the first lessons is that, when you come into an office such as mine, you need to take your time and not transpose where you are coming from, expecting people to immediately start behaving as if they were working within the NGO sector,” he shared. “That is how I came into office, and I see that it does not work at all. So you have to take time, learn the system, and see if there are adaptations you can make to fit in.”
The MCE also stressed the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships within the political arena. He noted that fostering connections with key stakeholders at all levels of government is essential for success. While some leaders naturally excel at maintaining these relationships, others may struggle, making it necessary to actively nurture and sustain these bonds.
“I think young politicians need to focus on building relationships and keeping them warm,” he advised. “When opportunities arise, these relationships can be pivotal to moving forward.”
Hon. Asanga concluded by encouraging younger politicians to remain patient, acknowledging that success in politics often unfolds gradually. Opportunities emerge over time as trust and connections develop, and by investing in these fundamentals, young leaders can position themselves for sustained success.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
