Rwanda is preparing for elections on Monday, with President Paul Kagame anticipated to secure another term in office. Kagame, who has been the de facto leader since the 1994 genocide, faces competition from Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana.
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Kagame, 66, is praised for Rwanda’s economic recovery, with an average annual GDP growth of 7.2% between 2012 and 2022. However, his administration faces criticism for suppressing political opposition and allegations of Rwandan troops supporting the M23 rebel militia in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kagame has previously won elections in 2003, 2010, and 2017, with more than 93% of the vote, nearly reaching 99% in the most recent poll. In 2017, Habineza and Mpayimana garnered 0.48% and 0.73% of the vote, respectively. Appeals from opposition figures Bernard Ntaganda and Victoire Ingabire to participate in the election were rejected, and Diane Rwigara, a notable critic, was barred from running due to paperwork issues and prior legal accusations.
A total of 9.01 million Rwandans are registered to vote, and the presidential and legislative elections are being held simultaneously for the first time. The campaign period highlighted the stark contrast between Kagame’s well-resourced rallies and the modest gatherings of his opponents. For instance, about 100 people attended a meeting at Habineza’s party in Juru.
Despite the efforts of his rivals, Kagame’s supporters remain steadfast. Beatrice Mpawenimana, 30, expressed her unwavering support, citing the improvements in women’s rights, infrastructure, and healthcare during Kagame’s tenure. Kagame’s leadership has shaped the lives of many young Rwandans, who have only known him as their leader.
Kagame’s political journey began as vice president and defense minister. He eventually became president in 2000 following Pasteur Bizimungu’s resignation. He has since won three presidential elections by universal suffrage. According to constitutional lawyer and political analyst Louis Gitinywa, Kagame’s Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) enjoys broad support across the country, making the election process seem more formal.
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However, human rights organizations criticize Kagame’s government for restricting political freedoms. Amnesty International reported severe restrictions on the opposition, including threats, arbitrary detention, and enforced disappearances. Kagame’s presidency could extend until 2034 due to constitutional amendments in 2015 that shortened presidential terms but reset the clock for his tenure.
