In Rwanda, citizens headed to the polls on Monday to cast their votes in a presidential election where incumbent Paul Kagame is widely anticipated to secure a fourth term, potentially extending his leadership of the East African nation to nearly three decades.
The election features two challengers: Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana.
While both expressed hope for progress, political analysts and human rights organizations suggest that Kagame’s victory is almost certain, given his track record of securing over 93% of the vote in the last three elections.
Kagame’s Regional and International Praise
Kagame, now 66, has been credited with helping to end the 1994 Rwandan genocide and fostering economic development, earning praise from Western and regional leaders.
However, his administration has faced criticism from organizations like Human Rights Watch, which allege crackdowns on journalists, opposition figures, and civil society groups in the lead-up to the election.
At a polling station in Kigali, voter Barimukije Pheneas expressed support for Kagame, stating,
“We voted smoothly without any crowding, and we are happy. I voted for Paul Kagame because he has achieved a lot for us; he united us.”
Another voter, motorcycle taxi driver Karangwa Vedaste, described the voting process as calm and peaceful but declined to reveal his choice, saying,
“I voted for a leader I trust. The one I voted for is a secret in my heart. We will share it when he wins.”
Eight Candidates Barred from Running
The election has not been without controversy. The electoral commission barred eight other candidates from running, citing various reasons including incomplete registration documents. This decision affected some of Kagame’s most vocal critics.
Despite the challenges, opposition candidate Frank Habineza remained optimistic, saying,
“We toured the entire country, and wherever we went, people welcomed us warmly. They gave us gifts and assured us they would vote for us…. We have to maintain this momentum and not regress.”
Frank Habineza while casting his vote, encouraged Rwandans to go out and exercise their right to vote.
Independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana also expressed confidence after casting his vote, telling journalists, “We are confident, each of us is confident, it’s half and half.”
The U.S. State Department has acknowledged Rwanda’s progress in various areas, including institutional development, economic growth, and security. However, it continues to encourage efforts to increase democratic participation and enhance civil and political rights.
The election also includes voting for members of the lower house of parliament, with provisional results expected by July 20. Polling stations are scheduled to close at 3 p.m. local time.
