Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News

Rwandans Vote In Expected Presidential Election Victory For Kagame

Supporters of Rwanda's President Paul Kagame dance during his final election campaign rally in Kigali, Rwanda Saturday, July 13, 2024. Rwandans are voting Monday in an election that will almost certai

Rwandans are participating in a presidential election on Monday, with President Paul Kagame seeking to extend his long tenure in power. The voting process saw some citizens in the capital Kigali lining up as early as 5 a.m., eager to cast their ballots.

With 9.5 million registered voters out of a population of 14 million, the election is expected to result in a victory for Kagame, who faces minimal opposition. His main challengers, Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, have struggled to gain significant support.

Kagame, who has been in power since 1994, is known for his authoritarian leadership style. Despite criticism, he has overseen substantial economic growth in Rwanda since the genocide of 1994.

The president's ability to remain in office has been extended through changes to term limits, allowing him to potentially stay in power until 2034. Kagame defended his decision to run for another term, citing the support of the ruling party and the Rwandan people.

9.5 million registered voters out of a population of 14 million.
President Kagame seeks to extend his long tenure in power.
Main challengers Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana struggle for support.
Kagame known for authoritarian leadership style since 1994.
Kagame has overseen economic growth despite criticism.
Term limit changes may allow Kagame to stay in power until 2034.
Concerns raised about restrictions on freedoms in Rwanda.
Rwandans exercise their right to vote amidst regional insecurity.
Election will shape Rwanda's future under Kagame's leadership.

However, the election occurs against a backdrop of regional insecurity, with reports of Rwandan forces supporting rebels in eastern Congo. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about restrictions on freedoms in Rwanda, including limitations on political opposition and the press.

Despite these challenges, Rwandans are exercising their right to vote in a crucial election that will shape the country's future under Kagame's continued leadership.

For more news on Africa, visit AP's Africa coverage.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.