BY: CHIOMA MADONNA NDUKWU
Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has secured a fourth term in office, receiving an astounding 99.15% of the vote. Only two challengers were allowed to run against him in this tightly controlled election.
The election commission released partial results seven hours after polls closed, confirming Kagame’s landslide victory. This result surpasses his previous win of 98.79% seven years ago. Opposition candidates Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party garnered just 0.53% of the vote, while independent Philippe Mpayimana received 0.32%, with 79% of ballots counted.
At 66 years old, Kagame addressed his supporters from the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) headquarters, expressing gratitude for the continued trust. “The results reflect trust, not just numbers,” he stated. “I am hopeful we can solve all problems together.”
Provisional results will be finalized by July 20, with official results expected by July 27. The National Electoral Commission reported a smooth and transparent electoral process for Rwandans both at home and abroad.
Kagame, who has led Rwanda for nearly three decades, is credited with rebuilding the nation after the 1994 genocide. However, he faces criticism for ruling through fear and for destabilizing the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. With 65% of Rwanda’s population under 30, Kagame remains the only leader most Rwandans have ever known.
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