Gatsibo - A local leader in Ngarama Sector, Gatsibo District, was relieved of his duties, after he was allegedly involved in a corruption scandal. According to the District Mayor, Ambrose Ruboneza, Gilbert Niyonshuti, yje former Executive Secretary of Kigasha Cell in Ngarama Sector, was suspended after residents pinned him of involvement in corruption malpractices. “We received several complaints from residents accusing the local leader of being corrupt, especially in the land registration exercises. We suspended him from his duties to warn others that we have a government that does not tolerate the culture of impunity,” he said. According to residents, Esdras Sibomana acquired his land title but later Niyonshuti forcefully retained it using his powers as a leader. “He took it back and gave it to another resident. We realized that he was given some cash,” complained one of the residents. Others accused the local leader of having conned them while seeking several services from him. A big percentage of disputes registered in Gatsibo District are commonly land-related and authorities have been called on to step up measures against the vice. The district leadership vowed to facilitate residents from engaging in land disputes but instead adopt justice and peaceful mediation. However, residents said local leaders, especially at the grassroots level, were behind such conflicts. dan.ngabonziza@newtimes.co.rw
