Two things dominated news this week; A Senator died and President Paul Kagame reshuffled his cabinet and brought in five new members. Both at the swearing-in and the bidding farewell of the late Senator Jean de Dieu Mucyo, President Kagame brought up the departed politician’s name. He advised the new members of his cabinet to emulate Mucyo’s dedication, work ethics and humility that he displayed in many of the posts he occupied. In short, he summed up the leadership virtues that should guide all leaders. It is not uncommon to discern an aloofness and haughty display by some leaders. No sooner are they appointed and self-importance takes over. They forget that they are there to serve the population and not stoke their own egos. They should keep in mind that the pedestal could be pulled under their feet for poor service. Public service should be regarded as a rare privilege, a sign of trust by the appointing authority that should not be abused. So, bureaucratic malaise in the civil service – that the president specifically pointed out – can be cured by leaders if they put their minds to it. While the country has lost a dedicated leader in Mucyo’s passing, he has left a challenge and legacy that only a good leader can match. This country has met numerous challenges and surmounted them in the past; therefore, good leadership should not even be an issue.
