“In Rwanda, it is not pressure we respond to, it is our own thoughts. Where this country comes from has taught us that we must refuse to be a submissive people,” Kagame noted.
The head of state said that if he did not give clemency to the prisoners, hundreds of thousands would still be in prison. However, in order to build the country, he said he made the decision to rehabilitate the citizens and enable them contribute to the country’s development.
The president made the remarks today at the Parliament after the swearing in ceremony of newly elected MPs where he has requested them to work together and collaborate towards transforming the country.
Kagame said that this inauguration is not just about a ceremony. It is about starting a new mandate and committing to working hard.
“Rwandans have placed their trust in you to serve them and work towards transforming this country into what Rwandans want and deserve,” he said.
The head of state reminded the MPs not to forget where their victory came from and the promises they made but serve those who trusted and elected them.
“You interacted with citizens when you were asking for their votes. Now that you have been elected, remain close to citizens, serve them and deliver on the promises you made,” he remarked.
Apart from approaching citizens, Kagame cautioned the MPs about corruption. He said he looks forward to seeing them hold government accountable for doing their job of serving citizens and delivering development.
‘If you can only account for 25% of the resources you are responsible for, we will ask you about the other 75%. And we will find where you have hidden them and hold you accountable,” he warned.
Leave a Reply