Leaders` lack of accountability behind poor project performance

lack of trust and sincerity among leaders and government executives has been attributed to villagers boycotting meetings geared to discuss implementation of various development projects.

Villagers from eight wards in Lindi municipality made the remark when contributing to discussions during training on citizen participation in development issues, good governance and human rights held at Mnazi Mmmoja primary school in Mingoyo ward, organised by an NGO dubbed ‘Poverty Fighters’.

Speaking on behalf of the villagers, Salma Swalehe said some elected leaders are irresponsible, something that irks the villagers hence opt to boycott meetings. She said some village and local government leaders are not cooperative and do not adhere to their ethics. She said such behaviors sometimes make people hesitate to participate in development projects.

Earlier, Mongoyo ward councillor, Jamadini Mandoa applauded ‘Poverty Fighters’ for organising the two-day training saying it is likely to change the mindset of the villagers and improve the element of good governance in the region.

He said the training on human rights would help villagers know and fight for their rights whenever they felt abused. He said it is important for every citizen to protect the country’s resources and avoid embezzlement of public funds.

In his welcoming remarks, Chairman of an association dubbed ‘Poverty Fighters’ who organised the training, Mwanashamu Namaluma said the aim of the training is to educate villagers on the concept of good governance and human rights.

He said the training has been attended by villagers from Mingoyo, Ng’apa,Wailes, Msinjaili, Mitandi, RahaLeo, Jamhuri and Mikumbi.

Namaluna said the villagers are entitled to participate in all meetings at village and ward levels and have the right to ask for financial and project implementation reports.