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Political Optimism Can Steal Your Existence: The High Cost of Waiting for Power

Introduction

In the vibrant landscape of growing democracies, particularly in regions like West Africa, there exists a pervasive, often unspoken social contract. It is the belief that unwavering political loyalty will eventually be rewarded with economic security. Many young, ambitious individuals invest their most productive years supporting political figures, hoping that a change in government will bring about personal fortune. However, a closer look at the mechanics of power and patronage reveals a harsh reality: political optimism can often act as a silent thief of time, skill, and personal growth.

This article explores the structural dynamics of political patronage, the concept of opportunity cost, and why building personal economic independence is often a more reliable path to success than waiting for political appointment. We will analyze why the “waiting game” in politics is a perilous gamble and offer practical advice for balancing civic duty with personal development.

Key Points

Background

To understand why political optimism can be a trap, one must look at the historical context of political engagement in developing democracies. In many nations, the state is the largest employer and the primary distributor of economic resources. Consequently, the pathway to wealth is often perceived to lie through government connections rather than private enterprise.

For decades, a narrative has been cultivated that suggests patriotism and party loyalty are investments that yield dividends in the form of appointments and contracts. Young graduates, eager to make an impact and secure their futures, often attach themselves to political parties, candidates, and movements. They mobilize voters, organize rallies, and defend party lines with the quiet expectation that “our turn” will come when power is won.

However, the history of governance shows a pattern. The machinery of government does not automatically expand to accommodate the thousands of loyalists who helped seize it. Instead, the inner circle—the family, the close friends, and the long-standing political insiders—are the primary beneficiaries. The “foot soldiers” are often left with vague promises of future consideration.

Analysis

The core of the issue lies in the structural nature of political rewards. It is not a meritocracy in the corporate sense; it is a system of patronage.

The Myth of Proportional Reward

There is a common misconception that political effort correlates directly with political reward. A supporter might spend eight years following an opposition candidate, enduring insults, and sacrificing personal time. When that candidate eventually wins, the reality sets in: the number of available government positions is finite. Access to state contracts is tightly controlled. The “big men” often prioritize their own financial needs and those of their immediate circle. The supporter is placed on the “bench,” told to wait a little longer. When power shifts again years later, the cycle resets, and sixteen years can vanish with nothing to show for it.

The Structural Barrier: Elite Recycling

Data and historical observation confirm that political elites are recycled across regimes. For example, looking at the history of Ghanaian politics, figures like J.H. Mensah served in government in the late 1960s and returned decades later as a Senior Minister. This pattern repeats itself across party lines. The same familiar faces reappear in ministerial positions while younger, technically skilled potential leaders remain outside the room.

This recycling is not necessarily malicious; it is a feature of how political trust is built. Incumbents prefer to work with people they know. However, the implication for the average supporter is stark: the pipeline for new entrants is narrow by design. Loyalty does not guarantee mobility.

The Economic Fallacy of Political Waiting

Political activism, while noble, does not inherently build compound interest. Chanting slogans and attending rallies do not appear on a balance sheet. The tragedy of the “political waiter” is the opportunity cost.

Consider a timeline of 16 years—a common duration between major political cycles in many countries. In that time, a dedicated supporter might gain political connections but no tangible assets. Conversely, had that individual invested the same energy into a laundry service, a bakery, a welding shop, or a logistics company, they would have built:

• Equity: A business that has actual market value.
• Skills: Technical and managerial competence that is transferable.
• Resilience: The ability to weather economic shocks independent of who is in the presidency.

Economic independence actually creates better political actors. When you do not need a political appointment to feed your family, you gain the freedom to speak truth to power and negotiate from a position of strength. Dependency, on the other hand, breeds silence and obedience.

The Psychological Toll

Beyond the financial loss, there is a psychological cost. Prolonged political waiting can infantilize capable adults. It shifts the mindset from “What can I build?” to “Who do I know?” Creativity dulls as energy is diverted toward proximity-seeking rather than problem-solving. Over time, self-respect erodes because the individual’s worth becomes tied to the whims of a politician rather than their own output.

Practical Advice

How does one engage in democracy without falling into the trap of political dependency? The goal is to remain a responsible citizen while safeguarding your future.

1. Treat Politics as a Part-Time Commitment

Unless you are running for office or employed by a campaign, political engagement should not be a full-time job. Dedicate specific hours to civic duties—voting, educating others, monitoring governance—but protect your prime working hours for economic activity.

2. Build Transferable Skills

If you are involved in politics, focus on roles that build real skills. Volunteer for data analysis, digital marketing, event planning, or logistics. These are marketable skills that serve you regardless of who wins the election. Avoid roles that rely entirely on personal loyalty without skill acquisition.

3. Diversify Your Identity

Do not define yourself solely by your political affiliation. Build a professional reputation that transcends party lines. When you are known as a competent accountant, engineer, or entrepreneur first, your value is permanent. Political winds change; your professional reputation is an asset you own.

4. The “Economic Independence First” Strategy

Strive to reach a level of financial stability where you can afford to say “no” to bad political directives. The most effective political reformers are often those who have built their own businesses and can afford to prioritize the national interest over personal patronage.

FAQ

Conclusion

Political optimism is not inherently evil; it is a natural human desire for a better future. However, when that optimism leads to a passive waiting game, it becomes a dangerous thief of existence. The reality of political patronage is that it is a high-risk, low-probability investment for the average citizen.

The most sustainable way to contribute to a nation is to become an economically independent citizen. Skills compound, businesses grow, and assets endure. Administrations come and go, but a life built on personal competence and economic resilience is a life that remains in your control. Do not put your life on political standby. Build your own future, and if you choose to engage in politics, do so from a position of strength, not dependency.