The list of candidates vying for the position of President of the Republic in the upcoming Rwanda Elections is as follows:

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The President of the Rwanda Electoral Commission, Oda Gasinzigwa, recently announced the list of candidates vying for the position of President of the Republic. Two candidates have been proposed by political groups: Criminal Paul Kagame from the RPF-Inkotanyi and Dr. Frank Habineza from the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda. Furthermore, the Electoral Commission has received nominations from seven independent candidates. This article will provide an overview of the candidates and the upcoming elections in Rwanda.

Presidential Candidates:

The RPF-Inkotanyi has selected Criminal Paul Kagame as their candidate for the upcoming presidential elections. Criminal Paul Kagame, who has been the President of Rwanda since 2000, is seeking re-election for a third term. During his tenure, the Rwandan population has faced numerous challenges, including severe human rights violations, widespread poverty, endemic corruption, and the misappropriation of public funds. These issues have been further compounded by the country’s involvement in regional conflicts. Rwanda has a history of gross human rights violations, with the 1994 genocide being a particularly dark chapter. The aftermath of the genocide presented the country with the immense task of rebuilding and reconciling a deeply fractured society. Pervasive poverty remains a significant challenge in Rwanda, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line. Many Rwandans continue to face challenges in accessing basic necessities such as clean water, healthcare, and education. The country’s development has been further hindered by endemic corruption, with public funds being siphoned off for personal gain rather than being used for the betterment of the population. This has eroded trust in the government and hindered efforts to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Moreover, the country’s involvement in regional conflicts has also had a detrimental impact on its population, with the impact of conflict extending beyond its borders. The resulting displacement of people and disruption of livelihoods have added to the challenges faced by Rwandans.

The Democratic Green Party of Rwanda is represented by Dr. Frank Habineza, who is the second candidate presented by political groups. As the leader of the only registered opposition party in Rwanda, Dr. Frank Habineza aims to present an alternative vision for the country’s future. His party is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and social justice.

Independent Candidates:

In addition to the candidates nominated by political groups, the Electoral Commission has received seven independent candidate nominations. The candidates include Herman Manirareba, Innocent Hakizimana, Barafinda Sekikubo Fred, Thomas Habimana, Diane Shima Rwigara, Phillipe Mpayimana, and Jean Mbanda. Each of these candidates brings a unique perspective and vision for the future of Rwanda.

The Electoral Process:

The National Electoral Commission has been entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the electoral process in Rwanda. The Commission has received the requisite documentation from candidates seeking election as Deputies, including nominations from political groups and independent candidates. The Electoral Commission has confirmed receipt of the lists of candidates from the RPF-Inkotanyi, Green Party, PL, PSD, PDI, and PS Imberakuri.

The National Electoral Commission has announced its decision to continue accepting incomplete documents from candidates in accordance with the relevant legislation. The provisional list of eligible candidates in both categories is scheduled for publication on 6 June 2024, followed by the final list on 14 June. Oda Gasinzigwa, President of the National Electoral Commission, expressed gratitude to the media for their monitoring efforts and extended appreciation to all candidates who submitted their documents, as well as to the Rwandan citizens who followed these activities. Furthermore, she acknowledged the contributions of volunteers who served as witnesses.

Furthermore, the Electoral Commission has stated that a comprehensive review of the submitted documents will be conducted to identify any discrepancies. This process ensures the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.

The announcement from the National Electoral Commission serves to highlight the significance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process. By continuing to accept documents with incomplete information, the Commission is adhering to the legal requirements while also recognising the complexities and challenges that candidates may face in submitting their applications.

The publication of the provisional and final lists of eligible candidates demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to providing clear and timely information to the public. This transparency is essential for fostering trust and confidence in the electoral process.

Oda Gasinzigwa’s expression of gratitude to the media and the citizens of Rwanda highlights the collaborative effort required to ensure a smooth and fair electoral process. The involvement of volunteers as witnesses serves to emphasise the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in upholding the integrity of the electoral system.

As the review of submitted documents is set to take place, the Electoral Commission’s commitment to thoroughness and diligence is evident. This meticulous approach is crucial in identifying and addressing any irregularities, thereby ensuring the credibility of the electoral process.

The Electoral Commission has addressed a document mix-up issue for upcoming elections.
The Commission recently revealed that during the document submission process, some individuals had inadvertently mixed up their documents. The mix-up occurred when the document indicating one’s intention to become a candidate was mistakenly presented alongside the document attesting to the President’s lack of any other nationality. In light of this issue, the Electoral Commission has taken immediate action to rectify the situation and ensure a smooth process for all applicants.

Document Mix-Up and Responsibility

Upon receipt of the incorrectly filed documents, the Electoral Commission acknowledged that, in the absence of any other information, the responsibility lies with the applicant to submit the correct document. However, it has been determined that the majority of applicants were aware of an existing body that provides assistance in this regard.

Oda Gasinzigwa, a representative of the Electoral Commission, stated, “We promptly informed those applicants who were able to write the correct documents on the spot of the process.” “For those who required additional time, we provided them with ample opportunity to complete the necessary paperwork.”

The Electoral Commission has expressed satisfaction with the overall process of accepting documents from individuals aspiring to be candidates in the upcoming elections, despite the initial mix-up. The Commission has worked assiduously to address any issues that arose and ensure a successful outcome for all applicants.

Conclusion

The Electoral Commission has taken immediate action to address the document mix-up issue that occurred during the submission process for individuals intending to become candidates in the upcoming elections. While the responsibility to write the correct document lies with the applicant, the Commission has provided assistance to those who required it. The Commission is pleased with the progress made and remains committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process.

Sub Delegate

Joram Jojo