By Gerald Niyirinda
Protests have erupted in Cyanika Town Council, Kisoro District, as residents clash with local authorities over the controversial reopening of the Katarara murram quarry and alleged misuse of public resources.
Residents accuse town council officials of misallocating funds and unlawfully reopening the quarry along the Kisoro–Chanika road. The site was closed in 2019 due to safety concerns, including landslides and mudslides.
The dispute follows a council meeting held last Thursday, during which a resolution was passed to revive operations at the long-dormant quarry. According to reports, the council plans to lease the site to a private contractor who will generate revenue for the local government.
However, the decision has sparked division within the council, culminating in the suspension of LCV Councilor Nizeyimana Valence Nguri, who opposed the move.
In response, Nizeyimana convened a community meeting attended by residents and several local leaders. Notably, town council officials did not attend the meeting.
During the gathering, residents expressed frustration over the lack of consultation prior to the quarry’s reopening. Concerns were also raised about alleged illegal harvesting of public tree plantations in areas such as Kanyamicucu, with residents warning of possible environmental degradation.
Some residents further alleged that the quarry is being exploited for personal gain, claiming that murram is being transported at night under unclear circumstances. They warned that peaceful demonstrations could escalate if their concerns are not addressed.
Local leaders, including LC1 Chairpersons Tibarikure Charles (Gahuru Village) and Karasira Joseph (Nyamijyenda Village), criticized the absence of town council authorities, describing it as a sign of poor leadership and possible misconduct.
Youth Councilor-elect Mfitumukiza Allan and NRM Vice Chairperson for Chanika Town Council, Richard Mfitumukiza, urged residents to hold their leaders accountable. They accused some officials of colluding with the town clerk to make decisions that could negatively impact the community.
Meanwhile, Nizeyimana reiterated his allegations, accusing the mayor and town clerk of selling public land and trees, and attempting to privatize the quarry under unclear circumstances. He vowed to continue pursuing the matter until justice is achieved.
In response, Chanika Town Council Mayor Sanyu Erasmus confirmed that Nizeyimana was suspended due to alleged misconduct during the council meeting. He also acknowledged that the quarry has been leased to a private individual, who will remit payments to the council for the remainder of the current financial year.
Sanyu maintained that all procedures followed were in line with the law and advised any aggrieved parties to seek legal redress through the courts.
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