KIGALI – President Paul Kagame of Rwanda is poised to secure a fourth term in the upcoming election scheduled for July 15. Kagame, who has been in power since 2000, faces two opposition candidates who have only modest expectations of success.
Kagame, 66, was instrumental in leading the rebel movement that ended the 1994 genocide, and he has won widespread acclaim for rebuilding Rwanda, which now boasts a population of 14 million and a reputation as a regional financial hub. However, his presidency has also been marked by international criticism over human rights issues and alleged support for rebel groups in neighboring Congo.
In the 2017 election, Kagame secured nearly 99% of the vote following a constitutional amendment that removed term limits. His anticipated re-election this time is seen as a potential sign of continued stability in Rwanda, although it is likely to attract further scrutiny from the global community.
The election commission approved only two challengers for the upcoming vote: Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and Philippe Mpayimana, who works for the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement. Six other potential candidates were disqualified for various reasons, including past criminal convictions.
Habineza, who garnered just 0.48% of the vote in the 2017 presidential election, expressed hope for improved results this time. “People only consider 2017 and say that I got 0.4%, but they forget that our party stood for parliament and got more than 5%,” he told Reuters.
Mpayimana, in a campaign event, urged voters to consider his platform. “It’s true you cannot change the winning team, but we also have to give opportunities to the junior teams to see if they can deliver on their pledges. That is what democracy means,” he said.
Over 9 million Rwandans are registered to vote in the election, which will also include the selection of members for the 80-seat lower house of parliament. Provisional results are expected by July 20.
Despite international criticism, Kagame remains popular among many Rwandans for his role in stabilizing and developing the country. During a recent rally, he assured supporters of continued progress, stating, “With you, there is nothing our country will not achieve, because today you have leaders who are not foolish and you are not foolish.”
As the election approaches, the world will be watching to see how Rwanda navigates this pivotal moment in its political history.