Why we should never take our leaders for granted

Editor, Refer to the article, “How competitive is the EAC region?” (The New Times, September 7). Rwanda might not be the biggest economy in the East African Community (EAC), but the latest Global Competitiveness Report by the World Economic Forum shows very well that this country has set an unshakable foundation in many areas. Those are the pillars that will help Rwanda reach the destination. For Rwanda, the ranking directly reflects the great work that has been done by the Government of Rwanda. As a country being least affected by the problem of organised crime in the region is something to crow about. It shows how Rwandans are law-abiding citizens dedicated to the task of building a peaceful, prosperous nation. It also shows how Rwanda has security organs that work efficiently to ensure that everyone enjoys peace when in Rwanda. This country is ranked 8th globally in the transparency of government policy-making and the reasons are there for all to see. Whatever the government plans to do, it informs citizens and we are given an ample time to provide feedback. The Government never takes obscure decisions to enforce them on its citizens – respect and dignity rules in every policy that the government implements, always considering the citizens first. If theres something that citizens arent happy about, it gets talked over and the President will not hesitate to personally intervene whenever necessary; he will publicly reprimand responsible leaders. Rwanda National Police is the most reliable police force in the region. Theres no doubt about that. Having stronger institutions that harmoniously work for the interests of the people is the reason why citizens love their police force. We Rwandans dont run for our lives whenever we come face to face with a police officer as it happens in some neighbouring countries. We chat with them, and they will smile while going about their work. There are also many instances a traffic police officer helps in pushing a car on the side of the road. They do that for their country and they don’t ask for bribes. We trust them. All this, and all that I cant point out here, comes from the spirit that prevails in the powerful office in the country – the Office of the President. The President is a visionary leader who understands why Rwandans should have accountable leaders who directly report to the citizens. Accountable governance is the secret behind Rwanda’s good ranking in many international surveys. Ministers, army, MPs, local leaders, police...are there to serve the people and they will be held accountable once they do the contrary. We should be grateful and thankful to a government that makes sure every Rwandan is proud whenever they are. Mutara Intore, Rwanda

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Why we should never take our leaders for granted