Lviv Mayor Sadovyi Admits Politics Steals Time from His Family

An Interview with Andriy and Kateryna Sadovyi

According to Главком: In a candid conversation with journalist Slava Dyomin, Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi and his wife Kateryna opened up about how his political career has reshaped their family life. Kateryna shared her struggles with public scrutiny and the challenge of adjusting to life in the spotlight, while Andriy acknowledged that politics consumes a significant portion of the time he could otherwise spend with his loved ones.

Married for over 25 years, Andriy and Kateryna Sadovyi are raising five children together. In the interview, Kateryna revealed that she has long felt the weight of public opinion and recalled the difficult years that followed Andriy’s election as mayor. She also mentioned that there were periods when he paid little attention to her for more than six years.

Andriy Sadovyi’s Political Journey

Andriy Sadovyi reflected on his path into politics. He started earning money at age 16 and, in the early 1990s, sold watches imported from Poland at a markup. During the interview, he shared his thoughts on responsibility in a shared life:

“When you walk on a razor’s edge, it’s easier to go alone. Because when you’re with someone, it’s a responsibility.” – Andriy Sadovyi

Sadovyi also noted that politics takes a heavy toll on his family time, stating: 'I want to have a family, but politics takes up a lot of my time.'

The couple discussed how their lives changed after Andriy entered politics. He admitted that if he could go back a few years, he would advise his younger self to:

• doubt his own abilities less,
• be more cautious about trusting people,
• spend more time with his wife and children.

These remarks highlight how political work has affected the Sadovyi family’s personal life. The interview underscores the importance of family support amid a political career and the challenges public figures face. They speak openly about the difficulties arising from constant societal and media pressure, which can strain personal relationships. It serves as a reminder that success in politics often comes with personal sacrifices, and strong family backing can be crucial in overcoming these hurdles.

As the conversation unfolded, Andriy Sadovyi also reflected on his early experiences that shaped his career, including his first job at 16, where he sold watches imported from Poland. This formative period not only influenced his work ethic but also laid the groundwork for his political ambitions. To learn more about how these early experiences impacted his journey into politics, check out his story about selling watches at a young age.