Paul Kagame Wins Fourth Term in Rwandan Presidential Elections
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has secured a new five-year term in office, winning the recent presidential elections with 99.15% of the votes. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced these results with 80% of the votes counted. Kagame, who has been in power since 1994, expressed his gratitude and confidence in the trust placed in him by the Rwandan people. He stated, "The 99% percentage is very impressive. Even if I had been chosen 100%, it is not just a question of numbers, it is a reflection of the trust you give me. That's what counts for me."
Election Results and Opposition Candidates
The other candidates in the election, Frank Habineza of the Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, received 0.53% and 0.32% of the votes, respectively. These elections mark Kagame's fourth consecutive victory, following wins in 2003, 2010, and 2017, all with more than 90% of the votes. The NEC continues to count votes until July 20, when provisional results for both presidential and legislative elections will be announced. The Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), led by Kagame, is also expected to secure a broad victory in the legislative elections.
Kagame's Legacy and Controversies
Kagame has been a central figure in Rwandan politics since leading the RPF, a Tutsi rebel group, to end the genocide in 1994. He was initially named vice president and minister of defense in the transitional government before ascending to the presidency in 2000. Kagame's tenure has seen significant economic reforms and anti-corruption measures, positioning Rwanda as one of Africa's most stable and developed nations. However, his administration has been criticized for suppressing political opposition and curtailing human rights. A 2015 constitutional amendment allows Kagame to run for one more term in five years. Despite these criticisms, Kagame remains a popular figure for many Rwandans, who credit him with bringing stability and development to the country.
- The Rwandan presidential elections have been marked by long queues and peaceful voting, according to observers from the African Union. Voters began lining up as early as 5 am at polling stations across the capital, Kigali. The NEC disqualified six other potential candidates, including some of Kagame's most vocal critics.
- Kagame's campaign focused on stability and security, contrasting Rwanda's progress with the political violence and economic challenges faced by its neighbors. Many Rwandans, like driver Frank Munyanza, expressed their support for Kagame, citing the development and security achieved under his rule.
- In his campaign speeches, Kagame emphasized the importance of sustainable progress and rebuilding the country after the devastation of the genocide. He urged Rwandans to continue on the path of development and to ensure that the country remains stable and prosperous.
