Editor,

Senate candidates are currently traversing the country canvassing for votes.

The candidates try to explain themselves out of the situation without much success. Citizens often out of ignorance of the role of lawmakers, expect too much from them. They expect them to extend electricity, water to their areas, fix roads, and build schools, lower food prices to mention but a few.

While lawmakers can help in the implementation of some of these projects, Rwandans need to understand that most of these services must be provided by districts in liaison with the line central government ministries. Incidentally, few aspirants if any have the courage to tell the electorate that theirs is primarily a legislative and oversight role. It’s erroneous to demand for these services from lawmakers. Candidates should be transparent during the campaign process and desist from making promises they cannot fulfill for the sake of votes. The aspirants should also clearly explain what their roles are and the distinction between them and, for example, mayors. I have heard some candidates pledge to improve the education standards, and create jobs, yet this is beyond what they can do.

Philip Karamaga
Nyagatare