Last Saturday, in Rwanda, political excitement animated the district of Musanze as President Paul Kagame officially launched his campaign for the presidential and legislative elections on July 15. After 24 years at the head of the country, the Rwandan head of state, candidate for a fourth term, addressed an enthusiastic crowd who came to fervently support him.
In a stadium packed with supporters brandishing the colors of the Rwandan Patriotic Front, the atmosphere was electric. Among the thousands of people present, Vincent Habumugisha, who came from far away to attend the presidential speech, expressed his unequivocal support: “We are here to show him our loyalty, just as he is there for us. We have traveled long distances to to be present at his side and show him our unwavering support.”
Paul Kagame’s words then resonated within the stadium, defending his record on democracy and calling on Rwandans to express their choice freely at the ballot box. He addressed the gathered crowd in these terms: “I came here to thank you and not to ask you for your vote. The power of decision rests with you, and I encourage you to vote with your soul and conscience on July 15 next”.
At the same time, other presidential candidates, such as MP Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and Philippe Mpayimana, were also engaged in their campaign across the country. Each defending their vision of democracy, emphasizing the importance of free will and freedom of choice for citizens.
This electoral dynamic in Rwanda reveals a diversity of discourses and commitments, each expressing their vision of democracy and governance. Beyond political divisions, it is citizen participation and democratic exercise which are at the heart of these upcoming elections. Rwandans are preparing to express their voice and decide the destiny of their country, in a climate of debate and intense mobilization.
In this lively political context, the stakes are high for Rwanda, and citizens will be the main actors in this crucial electoral process. The choice of July 15 will influence the future of the country and mark an essential step in the democratic evolution of Rwanda.