Religious leaders can use their influence to preach on the dangers of corruption to national development and citizens’ wellbeing, officials said yesterday.

Bernadette Kanzayire, the deputy Ombudsman in charge of preventing and fighting injustice, made the remarks while addressing clerics from different denominations in Kigali, on the role of religions in stamping out graft.

Self interests, cowardice, poor leadership structures, fighting for positions and ignorance of citizens on corruption were cited among the major causes of graft.

Kanzayire said the meeting with religious leaders was part of a weeklong campaign to highlight the dangers of corruption, which closes today.

"This is a special moment to discuss with religious leaders and their responsibility in fighting corruption. We remind them to sensitise their followers on the dangerous and manifestations of graft,” Kanzayire said.

"Graft is a sin, according to both the Koran and Holy Bible. We need all faithful to be truthful in providing information about graft,” she added.

Apostle Joshua Ndagijimana Masasu, the head of the Restoration Church, stressed the scriptures’ warning against graft.

He committed to preach against graft.

"When people lead faithful lives, the fear of God will prevent them from being corrupt. When a believer does contrary to what the scripture says, they go against the word of God. Actions speak louder than words,” Masasu said.

"We are believers but also Rwandans. Anything that affects the country’s dignity, also affects us. We have to share information whenever possible,” he added.

Sheikh Ismael Maniriho, in charge of evangelisation among the Rwandan Muslim Community, noted that any Muslim who gives or receives a bribe goes against Islamic beliefs.

"Corruption is rooted in lies. Our pillars are against that. It is a sin for all Muslims to give and receive bribe,” Maniriho said.

He added that, through Voice of Africa Radio, they conduct talk shows on graft calling on everyone to fight the vice.

Participants committed to responsibly strive to rally believers to be agents of anti-corruption efforts.

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