President Paul Kagame today called out local and senior government officials for the mismanagement of the relocation of people living in high-risk zones.
Addressing participants at the 17th Umushyikirano Council, Kagame used his State of the Nation address to hold accountable leaders who continue to issue construction permits for locals to construct homes and settle in wetlands.
Kagame wondered why leaders had failed to explain the reasons for the demolition of houses in wetlands.
“I would like to criticise the leaders, because yes, these houses should be demolished because these people are living in a place they shouldn’t. I don’t understand why they don’t feel the need to explain their decision to the target people. These things have consequences on many people,” he said.
Kagame pointed out that while those who live in wetlands illegally should not be compensated by the government, it was still the government’s responsibility to help them to resettle.
