A dispute over plots between the Gasabo District and scores of civil servants, has been resolved, The New Times can reveal. At least 200 civil servants from various government institutions had paid over Rwf440 million to acquire plots in Rusororo and Runyonza areas of Gasabo District.

It has been established that Gasabo District held an emergency meeting following intense media debate on the matter after The New Times broke the story last month.

The meeting was held by a commission set up by the district to find a solution to the dispute in which civil servants had threatened to petition courts of law.

The commission comprised of district officials and civil servants’ representatives discussed how the issue could be solved amicably.

Presided over by the chairperson of district advisory committee, the meeting concurred that civil servants get their plots as soon as possible. The meeting was also attended by Claudine Nyinawagaga the Mayor of Gasabo District.

According to minutes of the meeting, civil servants and the district agreed that plots would be given to whoever paid and that additional money will be paid for infrastructure developed in the areas allocated for the plots.

"Infrastructure is our priority before giving out those plots and this is in accordance with the law,” Nyinawagaga is quoted as having said in the meeting.

When contacted, Alain Mukurarinda who represented the civil servants said that by the end of April every civil servant is expected to have signed an agreement with the district for the plots before getting a land title.

Responding to whether civil servants have agreed to pay the additional money for the infrastructure, Mukurarinda confirmed everyone had agreed noting that it was vital to have infrastructure like roads, water and electricity in the area before allocating plots to the respective applicants.

He however noted that there is fear that civil servants may rescind on the decision if the district asks more than what they can afford.

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