By Daniel Nsengimana
KISORO – A section of leaders in Kisoro district has expressed mixed reactions regarding the proposal to increase the ex-gratia payments that local council I and II chairpersons receive annually.
Currently, there are 81,000 LCI and LCII chairpersons across the entire country, receiving a monthly payment of 10,000 shillings. However, the Minister of Local Government, Hon Raphael Magyezi, advocates for raising this amount to 50,000 shillings per month.
Sam Munezero, the LCI Chairperson of Kisoro Hill village, supports the overdue increase in ex-gratia payments. He believes that these dedicated local leaders deserve better compensation for their efforts in serving the community.
On the other hand, Line David, the LC1 Chairperson of Karumena village, shares a similar sentiment, stating that the increase in ex-gratia has been long overdue and should be implemented without delay.
Joram Hagabimana, the Busanza sub-county councillor, believes that the proposed increment will serve as motivation for the chairpersons. He strongly urges for the immediate implementation of the salary increase.
Abel Bizimana, the Kisoro district Chairperson, expresses his disappointment with the current payment structure, considering it as a mere pittance compared to the lavish lifestyle of central government leaders. Bizimana emphasizes that local leaders should be remunerated adequately for the valuable services they provide to the country.
