Sadate Munyakazi Apologizes for Controversial Remarks

Sadate Munyakazi, an entrepreneur affiliated with the RPF-Inkotanyi party, has issued a public apology following widespread criticism over statements he made suggesting that future Rwandan prosperity would rely on hiring neighboring populations for menial labor.

The controversy stemmed from remarks Munyakazi made to Rwandan youth, where he stated that “Rwandans will become bosses who will hire Burundians to sweep the streets and Congolese to clean the toilets in Rwanda” by the year 2050.

In his written apology, Munyakazi acknowledged that the comments were based on his “own personal ideas” regarding Rwanda’s future development. He explained that, following consultations with various people and his own conscience, he realized his language was inappropriate.

Widespread Criticism and Outrage over Sadate Munyakazi “Arrogance”

The statements drew sharp condemnation across social media, with critics arguing the comments were “ill thought” and amounted to “Kwishongora” (arrogance).

Many reactions focused on the potential negative consequences of the Sadate Munyakazi’s language, fearing that Rwandans living in neighboring countries might “start to be mistreated” as a result of the perceived provocation. Some commenters voiced sadness that others applauded what they called this “stupidity”

Commenters emphasized that the type of language used promotes hatred. One user worried that if Munyakazi were given leadership over the population, “he would throw them into the abyss” (yabata mu manga) because he is sowing hatred while being fully aware of the consequences.

Another critic went further, stating that openly wishing for someone to remain “beneath your feet” is tantamount to promoting colonialism.

Concerns were also raised about the integrity of those performing the jobs Munyakazi mentioned, noting that people who sweep streets or clean toilets are “people with high value”

Distance from RPF Principles

Several commentators sought to distance Munyakazi’s remarks from the official stance of the ruling RPF-Inkotanyi.

Many responses underlined that the RPF does not stand for this type of ultra-nationalism and questioned whether the party’s principles had been compromised by promoting “cheerleaders” over those who spread ideology.

One commenter asserted that the organization’s leader promotes Pan Africanism and African Unity, and that the country should promote Pan-African Movement (PAM) “in spirit & deeds”.

RPF’s guidelines are known and its achievements are evident, suggesting that Munyakazi’s words had nothing to do with the party.

The Official Apology

In his published statement titled “KUBO BIREBA BOSE” (To All Concerned), Munyakazi Sadate stated:

“I apologize to all those whom my message affected, whether they are Rwandans, Burundians, or Congolese, as well as others”.

He explicitly admitted that he had used “inappropriate language” which suggested that “our brothers would be left behind” and made to do “undesirable work”.

Munyakazi concluded by apologizing to “every African brother” because he had “violated the broad goal of our unity as Africans” .

He noted that while Rwandans strive for their development, they remain committed to doing so alongside their African siblings.