Don’t allow yourself to be used by Politicians for political gain – Youth Activist urges
Youth urged to stay informed and avoid political manipulation for short-term gains
A youth activist in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality, Bernard Azotiba, has expressed concern over what he describes as the growing tendency of young people to allow themselves to be exploited by politicians for political gain rather than using their influence and energy to advance their own interests and secure their future.
Speaking on Voices of Change on Mike FM on Saturday, June 6, during a discussion on whether politicians are genuinely empowering the youth or merely using them as tools for political advantage, Azotiba argued that many political actors often pursue personal and partisan interests under the guise of youth empowerment.
According to him, politicians frequently operate with strategic objectives that are not always aligned with the long-term interests of young people.
Citing how to win an election by Quintus Cicero, Azotiba noted that one of the key strategies in politics is securing the support of one’s inner circle, including family members and close associates.
“Whenever politicians are given the mandate to govern, the benefits often go to their family members and close associates, many of whom may not have been actively involved in campaign activities. When opportunities, jobs, or assistance become available, they are usually directed towards those close to them,” he stated.
He further observed that politicians often make broad promises to attract support, knowing that many people would rather receive a promise than an outright rejection.
According to him, this practice contributes to a cycle of dependency and political manipulation, particularly among young people.
“Because politicians know that an informed and educated population is less likely to be manipulated, they often prefer to keep people uninformed. We still have schools in poor condition, with inadequate desks and insufficient textbooks for effective learning,” he said.
Azotiba also argued that some politicians deliberately create conditions that make citizens dependent on them in order to maintain political influence and control.
“In order to stay in power, they make people dependent on them. They give you what you want instead of what you truly need,” he emphasised.
Despite his concerns, Azotiba urged young people to take responsibility for their future by engaging in productive and meaningful activities, seeking credible information, and staying informed about current affairs.
He encouraged the youth to develop critical thinking skills and remain vigilant so they do not fall victim to manipulation by self-serving politicians.
“Young people must empower themselves through knowledge, skills development, and active civic engagement. That is the best way to avoid being used for political purposes,” he advised.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Cynthia Afaah
