Minister of State in the President’s Office (Public Service Management and Good Governance), Ridhwani Kikwete, has said he is ready to appear before the Public Leaders’ Ethics Secretariat to respond to claims linking him to the ownership of fuel stations under the Lake Oil brand.
Addressing staff in his ministry, Mr. Ridhwani underscored the importance of transparency in public service, noting that leaders must be accountable whenever questions arise regarding their conduct.
He said the growing volume of complaints about public officials has made it increasingly difficult for citizens to distinguish factual concerns from misinformation.
“Complaints about leaders have become too many; it is hard to know which ones are true and which are not,” he said.
Mr. Ridhwani referenced recent demonstrations that included claims of unethical conduct by leaders. Among the allegations was the suggestion that Lake Oil fuel stations owned by businessman Ali Edha belong to him.
“There is a businessman called Ali Edha who owns Lake Oil, but the stations were burned on the basis of claims that they are mine,” he said.
He called on the Ethics Secretariat to summon him without hesitation so that he can formally address the matter.
He further recommended a comprehensive investigation, followed by a media briefing once the findings are complete.
Mr. Ridhwani also encouraged the commission to receive any additional evidence from the public to ensure that accurate information is made available.