Minister Habimana warns local leaders over poor service delivery, illicit alcohol trade

By The Inspirer.

Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana has warned local leaders against poor service delivery and protecting producers of illicit alcoholic beverages, saying those found responsible will face disciplinary action.

Speaking at a meeting of local government leaders, Habimana said some officials continue to disrespect citizens by delaying services, sending them from one office to another, and failing to respond to their concerns effectively.

He stressed that local government employees and leaders who fail to provide quality services must be held accountable and sanctioned.

The minister also cautioned local leaders against shielding individuals involved in the production and sale of substandard alcohol, noting that some officials had already been removed from office or placed under investigation for their involvement.

Habimana said the government would continue its crackdown on illicit alcohol to prevent further loss of life and protect public health. According to Rwanda National Police, substandard alcoholic beverages killed 22 people and left about 300 others with vision-related complications in the Eastern Province over the past year.