Rwandan President Paul Kagame Submits Candidature for Presidential Election

On May 19, 2024, Rwandan President Paul Kagame submitted his presidential election candidature to the National Electoral Commission (NEC), accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame. This marks a significant step in Kagame's bid for a fourth presidential term in office.

The submission took place at the NEC headquarters in Kiyovu, Nyarugenge District, Kigali, where Kagame's file was received by Oda Gasinzigwa, the chairperson of the NEC. Kagame's party, the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi), had previously elected him as its flag-bearer on May 9, 2024.

Why this matters: The outcome of Rwanda's presidential election will have significant implications for the country's political landscape and its relationships with international partners. Kagame's continued leadership could also impact the region's stability and economic development.

Kagame, 66, has been in power since 2000 and was re-elected in 2017 with over 98% of the vote. His leadership has been credited with Rwanda's significant development following the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis. However, his tenure has also faced criticism for suppressing freedom of expression and opposition voices, which has led to concerns about the country's democratic process.

The upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections are scheduled for July 15, 2024, with the diaspora voting on July 14. This will be the first time that elections for the President and lawmakers will be held concurrently. The deadline for submitting candidatures is May 30, 2024.

Kagame's candidacy has been endorsed by major opposition parties, making his reelection highly likely. In April, Kagame was reelected as the chairperson of the RPF with 99.8% of the vote. The NEC has reported that approximately 9.5 million Rwandans are eligible to vote in this year's elections.

During the submission, Kagame provided a certificate issued by the RPF Inkotanyi nominating him as a candidate, a certificate proving his Rwandan citizenship of origin, a declaration affirming the authenticity of the documents provided, and a declaration of his assets. The NEC chairperson confirmed the file was complete.

'The file is complete,' said Oda Gasinzigwa, NEC chairperson. Wellars Gasamagera, Secretary General of RPF Inkotanyi, added, 'NEC has received the candidacy of our aspirant which is a big milestone not only for our party but for the country at large. The next step for us is to go and prepare. We shall hold several congresses with party members to prepare the field for campaigns.'

Kagame's opponents have been excluded from the electoral race or have resigned themselves to supporting him, criticizing the electoral process as unfair. Despite this, Kagame remains a dominant figure in Rwandan politics, with his party and allies firmly backing his leadership.

As Rwanda heads towards the July elections, the political landscape remains firmly under Kagame's influence, with his candidature marking a pivotal moment in the nation's electoral process.

Key Takeaways

• Rwandan President Paul Kagame submits bid for 4th presidential term.
• Kagame's party, RPF-Inkotanyi, elected him as flag-bearer on May 9, 2024.
• Presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for July 15, 2024.
• Kagame's candidacy endorsed by major opposition parties, making reelection likely.
• Approximately 9.5 million Rwandans eligible to vote in this year's elections.