Leaders should always be role models

Editor, Allow me to comment on the story that appeared in The Sunday Times, March, 4, titled: “20 questioned over funds”.  Indeed, there is no room for corruption in Rwanda.

Monday, March 05, 2012
Members of the Public Accounts Committee of the Chamber of Deputies. The New Times / File.

Editor,Allow me to comment on the story that appeared in The Sunday Times, March, 4, titled: "20 questioned over funds”.  Indeed, there is no room for corruption in Rwanda.Leaders, especially government officials, are supposed to be role models, particularly with regard to respect of the law and procedures. Their integrity must be beyond reproach if they are to manage taxpayers’ money responsibly. Therefore, those who were interrogated over alleged mismanagement of public funds must, once found in the wrong, be held accountable. We have had cases in the past where various district leaders and central government officials were involved in mismanagement of public funds.It is unacceptable when leaders who are supposed to ensure the rule of the law are the ones violating it. Corruption is a societal cancer and, if not fought adequately, it can destroy the entire society. Remember corruption only benefits a few who have access to public funds. Rwanda’s strategy to fight corruption has fostered economic development which is bearing fruit and worth emulating by the rest of the countries. I know the overwhelming majority of our leaders lead by example, but it’s always important that action is taken on time in case of weaknesses. That way, we will stay on course…Annet KemigishaKigali