NYABIHU - Addoulatif Twahirwa, has been elected as the new Mayor of Nyabihu District, replacing Jean Baptista Nsengiyunva, who passed away in June 2011.

Twahirwa, 36, an agronomist, was elected by the District Advisory Council.

He has been working as Chief of Plantations at Kitabi Tea Factory in Ngororero District. 

"I will work towards eliminating corruption, injustice and social differences in this district. We shall work as a team to set priorities which will lay a good foundation for sustainable development of this district. I will deliver,” the youthful Twahirwa pledged.

He noted that the major challenges for the district include the relocation of the hundreds of families currently occupying gazetted areas of Gishwati forest.

"We are ready to work together to fast-track implementation of the various programmes the government has set. We need good service delivery from all levels in the district,” he added.

Elsewhere in Gakenke District, the advisory council elected Odette Uwitonze, as the new Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, replacing Clemence Ugiribanga, who was sacked in July following accusations of corruption.

Gakenke still has vacant posts, including  those of district Executive Secretary, Accountant and  Budget Officer, after the three were fired on accusations of embezzlement of over Rwf 120 million.

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