#Election2024: I’ve learned that you don’t take the voters for granted — Dumelo

MP-elect for Ayawaso West Wougon, John Dumelo

John Dumelo, the Member of Parliament-elect for Ayawaso West Wuogon, has emphasized the importance of humility and responsiveness in politics, saying he has learned not to take voters for granted.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based JoyNews on Monday, December 9, Dumelo reflected on his victory in the just-ended elections and highlighted the lessons drawn from his political journey.

According to him, politicians who fail to meet the needs of the electorate risk being voted out of office.

“The first thing is, you don’t take the people for granted. You don’t take voters for granted,” Dumelo said. “The same people that voted you into power—when you get there, please, as much as possible, represent them well. Don’t be too complacent. Don’t think because you have power, you can do whatever it is that you like.”

The MP-elect attributed his success to hard work and consistent engagement with constituents, especially in the past year. He noted that voters now prioritize politicians’ performance over material inducements.

“You can go and share all the money that you want. You can go and share all the rice and oil that you want, but if you don’t stick to the needs of the people and address them, they will vote you out,” he stated.

Dumelo acknowledged that his four-year mandate would be a test of his commitment to the people of Ayawaso West Wuogon, adding that delivering on his promises was crucial for earning their trust in subsequent elections.

“If I don’t do my work well, four years will come, and they will vote me out based on my track record. For me, that’s the lesson: we shouldn’t take anyone for granted at all,” he stressed.