Editor,

I write in response to his article that appeared in The New Times on the 21st of Oct. 2009.

I disagree with him when he says that Presidents only guide and define policy; Presidents do much more than that.

They are the backbone of our governments and countries, that’s why we all yearn and crave for good presidents, because they do not only lead us to the path of prosperity, their determination, selflessness and hard work makes us proud of our governments and countries.

This pride, in turn, inspires in us with the confidence and commitment to work even harder to secure a bright future for our children.

While I agree this is not the case for many presidents in Africa, please realise that there are some presidents who are actually committed to their countries.

Mr. Isibo suggests that the criteria should be changed and instead consideration should be made of all the "tireless volunteers”. I disagree. In respect of that young man and nun in northern Uganda, there are certain awards that are made specifically for such efforts.

I am of the view that the criteria not be changed, leaders that are exemplary should be honoured and those who steal should be punished by the laws in their countries.

It is in this light that, not one but many countries, agencies, organizations and dignitaries have continued to honour President Paul Kagame for his exemplary leadership.

He deserves all the accolades and awards because we as Rwandans know that.

On a different note, maybe half the prize should be given to the president and the other half to be used to finance a sector or particular sector where he particularly excelled. That’s some food for thought.

Oh and we need to continuously shower our mothers with praise and prizes, not to get them to love us more, but to show them appreciation for the love they have given us.

Some mothers just don’t love their children; others abuse, neglect or even at worst, kill their own children.

So if you have a loving mother, please shower her with love in equal measure or even more. She made you who you are today.

So you still think our Presidents don’t deserve this award?

B. Desire.
bunny.desire@yahoo.com