Discipline has helped RPF to stay focused

Editor, RE: “Why RPF-Inkotanyi is not a political party but a family” (The New Times, July 20). Great piece — indeed campaign season reminds us of the bond we all have to this great nation. They re-awaken our commitment to self-determination as a nation, they acquiesce any self-interest in us for the greater good of the country and the party, and they remind us that we are woven into the family forming transformation phase of this great country and there can be no better time to be Rwandan than now and tomorrow. As a 30-year-old born to refugees that fled to Kenya, I am always intrigued by the level of sacrifice my parents’ generation (those in their 60s and 50s) made for this country. I am amazed at the fact that RPF-Inkotanyi hasn’t allowed any personal individualisation of its success or personal self-entitlements that have defined some of our neighbouring countries’ parties to their detriment. Success and challenges are borne or credited to the party underscoring the family aspect highlighted above. How RPF has managed to stay above board continues to beat my understanding, particularly how the party has institutionalised/collectivised governance and accountability within itself for 27 years while remaining relevant in a constantly changing external/internal political environment. Dear Ambassador, your piece has given me more insight. Thank you. Denis Allow me to directly address Ambassador Sezibera: You are one informed Rwandan that we all are blessed to have in our midst. Your views are not only right but also efficiently penned with the flavour that befits a thirsty intellectual mind in need of facts. As the English say, the taste of pudding is in the eating; reading it makes one want to read more of your pieces. You make this saying, “The elegance of honesty needs no adornment”, true! Telling and writing our own story is the only way to go. Reading from fully baked, informed and experienced compatriots in the region, like yourself, makes me better understand our story than reading it from the world yonder who postures as an expert on African matters. I can’t wait to read your next article. Paul Markov

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Discipline has helped RPF to stay focused