President Paul Kagame’s recent comments to government leaders address a major issue in governance: the acceptance of failure. His critique goes beyond typical political talk because it directly challenges a culture where repeated mistakes are tolerated, and accountability is often weakened. Kagame’s central point is clear: leaders must serve citizens, not themselves. When the same issues come up year after year, despite new personnel and many meetings, it indicates not just individual errors but broader problems in the system. His question, “Where is the problem?” is more than a rhetorical device; it prompts a serious look at whether institutions are set up to achieve results or just maintain appearances. ALSO READ: Kagame urges leaders to put citizens first, end recurring failures The Muvumba project shows this failure clearly. A development initiative with multiple goals cannot succeed if only half of it is carried out. Poor planning and weak coordination are not just minor mistakes; they lead to costly failures that impact citizens’ lives. Even more alarming is the case in Karongi, where a woman lost her life due to rigid bureaucracy concerning health insurance. Kagame’s description of this incident as “criminal” highlights the urgent need for reform. Kagame also criticizes the “bad habits” in leadership, such as negligence, arrogance, and complacency. These are not vague issues; they are actions that damage public trust and hinder national progress. His call for those who cannot perform to step aside insists on merit over position. Ultimately, Kagame’s message urges a new understanding of accountability, not as a catchphrase, but as a clear outcome. For Rwanda’s governance system to improve, it must break the cycle of repetition and foster a culture of responsibility, coordination, and results. Citizens deserve nothing less.
