INTERVIEW: Justice Activist Rinaani Calls for Increased Accountability from Local and Regional Councilors Accountability Concerns

Justice activist has expressed serious concerns about the lack of accountability among local and regional councilors, despite their crucial role in addressing the needs of the communities they serve. Rinaani Musutua emphasized that councilors, who hold significant power to bring about meaningful change, are often the least held accountable by both the public and the government.

Lack of Education and Awareness
Rinaani pointed out that a major contributing factor to this issue is the widespread lack of education among citizens regarding their rights and how to effectively demand accountability from their elected representatives. Without proper understanding, citizens are left powerless to hold councilors accountable for their actions or inactions.

Short-Term Solutions vs. Long-Term Change
The activist criticized councilors for focusing on short-term measures, such as distributing food parcels, rather than addressing deeper, systemic issues like financial empowerment. He stressed the importance of initiatives like a universal basic income grant, especially in a country burdened by high unemployment and widespread hunger. The emphasis, he argues, should be on long-term solutions that can uplift communities and create lasting change.

Frustration and Disillusionment Among Citizens
Despite Rinaani‘s efforts to engage councilors in supporting meaningful initiatives, he noted that many showed little interest or failed to take further action. This has led to growing frustration and disillusionment among the electorate, as many feel their concerns are being ignored by the very representatives they voted into power.

A Call to Action
The activist warned that the growing disconnect between councillors and their constituents could undermine democracy itself. He urged citizens to take action by uniting, organizing protests, and demanding that councilors fulfill their duties. Rights, he reminded, are not freely granted but must be actively claimed through collective action. Only then can real change be achieved.