Category: Politics

Citizens from various parts of the country braved the morning cold to gather at the newly unveiled state-of-the-art stadium before dawn, highlighting their enthusiasm for the inauguration of Kagame, who is credited with spearheading various economic and social reforms that have put Rwanda on the world map.

The stadium was adorned with the colours of Rwanda’s national flag, and many attendees wore matching outfits. The blue, yellow, and green of the flag represent happiness and peace, enlightenment, economic development, and hope for prosperity, respectively.

For the better part of the morning, attendees were treated to songs and dances as they awaited the official kickoff of the event at around 2:00 p.m., when high-ranking dignitaries began to arrive.

More than 20 Heads of State graced the event and were treated to a warm welcome befitting their stature.

The Presidents who attended the event included Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, João Lourenco (Angola), William Ruto (Kenya), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Malawi), Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé (Togo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central Africa Republic), Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo) and Ismail Omar Guelleh (Djibouti).

Others were Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Wavel Ramkalawan (Seychelles), Mamady Doumbouya (Interim President of Guinea), Mokgweetsi Masisi (Botswana), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique.

King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan, and Brice Oligui Nguema, President of the Transition of the Gabonese Republic, also attended the ceremony.

At a quarter past 3 p.m., the motorcade of President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame made its way into the stadium to thunderous cheers from the attendees.

Thereafter, President Kagame was sworn into office for another five-year term. The oath of office was administered by Faustin Ntezilyayo, the Chief Justice and President of Rwanda’s Supreme Court.

The Head of State was then presented with ceremonial symbols, including the sword and shield.

President Kagame proceeded to inspect a guard of honour mounted by the Rwanda Defence Forces and the Police.

Shortly thereafter, the military executed a spectacular display, featuring helicopter manoeuvre that soared through the stadium.

After approximately an hour of breathtaking performances, the army and police exited the stage, making way for traditional dancers who captivated the audience, keeping them on their feet throughout the exhilarating display.

At around 5:00 p.m., President Kagame took to the podium to deliver his speech to the enthusiastic crowd.

Following his speech, a ceremonial RDF convoy advanced with to formally escort and secure the instruments of power, ensuring their safe return to the designated place repository, in accordance with protocol.

This historic event, following his overwhelming victory in the July 14-15 elections, marks the beginning of Kagame’s fourth term as Rwanda’s leader, a testament to his enduring leadership and the country’s remarkable progress under his guidance.

The inauguration is more than a ceremonial event; it is a powerful statement of Rwanda’s political stability and its rising influence on the global stage.

Over two dozen heads of state have gathered to witness this momentous occasion, reflecting the immense respect and admiration President Kagame commands both within Africa and internationally.

“President Kagame is not just a leader for Rwanda; he is a leader for Africa,” remarked President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, emphasizing Kagame’s role in shaping the continent’s future.

The political implications of this inauguration are significant for both Rwanda and the broader African continent. Kagame’s leadership has been characterized by visionary policies that have transformed Rwanda into a model of economic development, infrastructure growth, and social empowerment.

His commitment to innovation and technological advancement has particularly benefited Rwanda’s youth, equipping them with valuable skills that are driving the country’s future.

“Under President Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda has become a hub of innovation,” noted President Emmanuel Macron of France. “The progress we see here is a testament to what can be achieved with strong, visionary leadership.”

The inauguration ceremony itself is a vibrant celebration of Rwanda’s cultural heritage, featuring traditional dances and performances that highlight the nation’s unity and pride.
Testimonies from Rwandans and international leaders alike underscore the impact of Kagame’s leadership on the country’s transformation.

“Rwanda is a beacon of hope and progress,” said President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya. “And President Kagame’s steadfast leadership is at the heart of this remarkable journey.”

As Rwanda continues to advance, the country’s achievements in women’s empowerment and gender equality stand out as significant milestones.

Women have taken their rightful place in leadership roles across various sectors, reflecting the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and justice. This progress is not just symbolic; it represents the foundation of Rwanda’s continued growth and stability.

President Kagame’s leadership has also fostered strong international relationships, with many global leaders expressing their admiration and support.

“President Kagame’s unwavering dedication to his country is an inspiration to us all,” said Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany. “His visionary approach to governance and development sets a powerful example for the world.”

Today, Rwanda celebrates not just a leader, but the collective achievements of a nation that has risen from its past to embrace a future filled with hope, prosperity, and boundless possibilities.

The presence of so many esteemed global leaders at this inauguration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing influence on the world stage and the respect Kagame has earned as a leader of immense capability and vision.

As the country looks ahead to the next five years under Kagame’s leadership, the focus remains on building a future where everyone can thrive. The unity and strength that Rwanda has demonstrated are the cornerstones of its success, and this inauguration is a celebration of that spirit.

“Congratulations, President Kagame. Your leadership continues to inspire us all,” echoed President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, capturing the sentiment of a nation and a world that watches Rwanda with admiration and respect.

This historic milestone is a reminder of the journey Rwanda has undertaken and the bright future that lies ahead. With President Kagame at the helm, the possibilities are indeed boundless.

The discord reached a new low point on July 30, 2024, marking the end of Bert Versmessen’s three-year term as Belgium’s ambassador to Rwanda.

Jeune Afrique recently reported that Rwanda rejected Belgium’s latest ambassadorial nominee, a move that followed Belgium’s refusal to accept Vincent Karega, Rwanda’s designated envoy to Brussels.This Belgian diplomat had been proposed on December 11, 2023.

Rwanda’s refusal to approve this candidate led Belgium to withdraw the nomination on June 18, 2024. Consequently, Belgium is left without an ambassador in Kigali, and Rwanda has been without a representative in Brussels since Dieudonné Sebashongore’s departure over a year ago.

Despite the embassies’ continued operation, the atmosphere remains palpably tense. Rwanda’s government has accused Belgium of yielding to pressure from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a country with which Rwanda has had a contentious relationship.

President Paul Kagame, in an interview with Jeune Afrique in March 2024, insisted that Rwanda would not nominate another ambassador unless Belgium clarified on why it had rejected Karega.

The president denounced Belgium’s actions as unacceptable and claimed they were influenced by the DRC’s demands.

Diplomatic experts suggest that the onus to mend the fractured relationship now lies with Belgium, which first rejected Karega without clear justification.

The strained ties are not entirely new; Belgium’s historical actions during and after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi have long strained relations with Rwanda. This historical context, coupled with Belgium’s perceived attempts to exert colonial influence, has contributed to the ongoing tension.

For reconciliation, analysts assert that both political will and mutual respect are crucial. This diplomatic challenge echoes a similar situation from 2015 when Rwanda and France experienced strained relations. During that period, Rwanda refused to accept a new French ambassador until the relationship improved under President Emmanuel Macron.

As the diplomatic impasse continues, the path to restoring harmonious relations between Rwanda and Belgium remains uncertain, underscoring the complexities of international diplomacy shaped by both historical grievances and contemporary political dynamics.

The legendary Kenyan opposition leader made the remarks after signing the AUC Chair application documents on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

“I signed off my AUC Chair application documents. We are focused on bringing the seat home for Kenya and serving the African people,” Odinga stated.

Thereafter, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Korir Sing’oei confirmed that all was set for the submission of Odinga’s application documents.

“All-Set-Go!” Sing’oei captioned social media photos showing bundles of the documents set to be submitted to the AU Secretariat for consideration.

August 6, 2024, is the deadline for submission of candidatures for the coveted continental job.

Odinga, who previously served as African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, is seeking to succeed Chad’s Moussa Faki in elections slated for February 2025.

He is among four renowned African leaders who have declared interest in the job. Others are former Seychelles Vice President Vincent Meriton, Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mahmoud Youssouf, and ex-Somali Foreign Minister Fawzia Yusuf.

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Odinga received a huge boost in his bid earlier this year when the African Union Executive Council unanimously resolved that candidates for the position of the next chairperson of the AU Commission would be nominated by the Eastern African regional states.

Several African Heads of State, including President Paul Kagame and Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni have since expressed their support for Odinga to clinch the top job.

Others are Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan, and Ghana’s Nana Akufo-Addo.

Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera and his Zambian counterpart Hakainde Hichilema have also pledged to support Odinga’s bid.

The chairperson of the AU Commission is the Chief Executive Officer of the African Union.
The position is crucial in driving the Union’s agenda and representing the continent on the
global arena.

Candidates for the position are nominated by member states of the African Union. A high-level panel of eminent Africans is responsible for assessing and shortlisting the nominated candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and leadership abilities.

The final election is conducted by the Assembly of the African Union, which comprises representatives from all member states. The election is held by secret ballot, and a two-thirds majority of eligible member states is required to elect the Chairperson.

The successful candidate serves a four-year term, renewable once.

Museveni made the remarks on Thursday, July 25, 2024, while accusing “imperialists” of sponsoring the protests witnessed in the country on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

In a statement shared on social media, the Ugandan Head of State said he had received credible intelligence that the protests were sponsored. He warned that he won’t allow “imperialists” to meddle with the internal affairs of Uganda.

“All those involved should know that Uganda is not a neo-colony where those shallow schemes can be deployed,” President Museveni stated.

Museveni noted that organizers and participants of the demonstrations were “planning very bad things” and the “evidence in court will shock many”.

“Those very bad things will come out in court when those arrested are being tried,” Museveni said as he lauded the security forces for foiling the demonstrations.

He argued that if the protests were patriotic, peaceful and coordinated with the police he would have been the first to join.

The President contrasted the failed protest with a past anti-corruption march in 2019 organized by Ugandan military officer Lt. Col. Edith Nakalema, saying he was ready to participate in a similar exercise.

“In the year 2019, Nakalema organized us and we marched from the city Square through Kampala Road to Jinja Road and went to Kololo. So many people were there- Bishops, Soldiers, Wanainchi, etc.

“…Nakalema can co-ordinate with the genuine anti-corruption fighters for a similar effort, especially on a Sunday,” he added.

He, however, emphasized that heavily populated suburbs in the country should never be used for demonstration as they will “damage the little wealth creation that our people are painstakingly building up”.

More than 70 youths accusing members of parliament of graft were arrested on Tuesday during a march to parliament.

The protesters stormed the streets of Kampala after drawing inspiration from weeks of youth-led protests in Kenya that forced President William Ruto to dissolve his cabinet and withdraw proposed tax hikes.

The Ugandan Head of State had warned against such demonstrations, saying those behind the plans were “playing with fire”.

In a twist of events, Ruto handed critical dockets including Finance, Energy and Mining, to opposition leader Raila Odinga’s allies in what has been perceived as an attempt to appease the protesters demanding radical changes in government.

Addressing the media at State House, Nairobi, Ruto hoped his new cabinet would revive efforts to deflate anti-government protests that have been going on for weeks.

President Ruto nominated the chairman of the ODM party, John Mbadi, as Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury and Economic Planning (Finance). He also picked ODM deputy leaders Wycliffe Oparanya and Ali Hassan Joho to head plum dockets previously held by his loyalists.

Oparanya has been nominated to head the Ministry of Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development, while Joho will be in charge of the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs.

Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, also a senior member of Odinga’s ODM party, has been nominated as Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum.

Seven more new appointments were made in addition to the [11 that Ruto announced last week->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-ruto-retains-6-ministers-in-new-cabinet-appointments#:~:text=They%20are%20Kithure%20Kindiki%20(Interior,takes%20over%20the%20Roads%20docket.].

Salim Mvurya was moved from the Ministry of Mining and Blue Economy to the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry. Kipchumba Murkomen is set to become the Minister of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports after a stint at the Road and Transport docket.

Former Trade Minister, Rebecca Miano, will be in charge of the Tourism and Wildlife portfolio.

Alfred Mutua has been nominated to head the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, while former Attorney General Justin Muturi has been nominated to head the Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development. Stella Soi Lang’at is set to take over as the new Minister for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage.

The ODM party is the main opposition party in Kenya. It is also the largest party in the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition, which was formed in the run-up to the 2022 presidential elections.

The Ministry of Finance and Planning recently found itself at the center of the Kenyan protests after drafting the Finance Bill 2024, which sought to raise $2.7 billion local revenue through collection of additional taxes.

Former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga last week opposed calls for President Ruto to resign over government failures and instead called for dialogue to resolve the issues raised by the youth.

While announcing the additional members of the cabinet, Ruto promised to tackle corruption in government by undertaking stringent measures.

“I will be proposing the amendment of the Evidence Act, Criminal Procedure Code, as well as other necessary changes, to expedite and prosecute corruption cases within six months,” he said.

Additionally, the president pledged to propose amendments to the Witness Protection Act to protect and incentivize whistleblowers as well as enhance witness protection.

The MPs were reacting to horrific scenes witnessed as security forces clamped down on demonstrators who had planned a peaceful demonstration demanding for the resignation of the Speaker, Rt Hon Anita Among over corruption allegations.

On Tuesday early morning, a security blanket rolled over Kampala as Uganda Police Force and Military deployed hundreds of personnel in what authorities described as a precautionary measure to avoid law breakers from disorganizing the city.

During plenary sitting, security services had deployed heavily outside Parliament preventing demonstrators from accessing the premises in a planned Anti-Corruption march.

In downtown Kampala, the army deployed armored vehicles and heavily-armed personnel to patrol the streets resulting in over 60 demonstrators being detained at various police stations in Kampala, according to local media reports.

This did not go well with some MPs who accused the speaker of selectively applying the law when it comes to public demonstrations.

Hon Joel Senyonyi, the Leader of Opposition and MP for Nakawa West Constituency asked the Deputy Speaker Rt Hon Thomas Tayembwa why the “protesters” against people pursuing the censure motion against corrupt Parliamentary officials are well received while those demanding the resignation of his boss are stopped.

“When protesters against corruption in Parliament and other entities want to come to Parliament, they are brutally arrested but when those against people pursuing the censure motion against corrupt Parliamentary officials show up, they are well received. These double standards must stop, peaceful young people should be listened to,” Senyonyi said.

The security deployments and eventual arrests follow the youth’s declaration to hold a peaceful demonstration against corruption in government, especially Parliament

The youth are calling for the resignation of the top leadership of Parliament and reduction of lawmakers’ salaries and allowances.

Several protesters were arrested and detained at various Police Posts as they held placards condemning corruption in government.

Meanwhile, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) has set up a team of lawyers to secure bail for the arrested protestors.

Led by Bernard Oundo, the President of ULS, lawyers from the Legal Aid Project of ULS are already at Jinja Road Police Station to secure bond for the detained protesters.

“They have been told to wait for a while. All the stations where the protesters have been detained have already been visited by our lawyers from the Uganda Law Society to represent them. The Law Society is more than ready to assist in the provision of legal aid,” Oundo said.

The Uganda Human Rights Commission Chairperson Justice Mariam Wangadya has advised government to present those arrested during the ongoing anti-corruption protests before the Courts of Law within the stipulated time.

Wangadya also asked government to consider releasing those arrested without any charge, and implored security agencies to exercise their mandate within the realms of the law.

In a statement released on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, the Head of State acknowledged messages of goodwill and wishes from close to 30 leaders from across the world.

“My sincere gratitude for the messages of congratulations and support from the friendly leaders of countries around the world. We look forward to continuing the mutually beneficial ties for and between our people,” Kagame stated.

He mentioned some countries including Barbados, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Cuba, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Guinea-Bisseau, Guinea, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique and Oman.

Others are Qatar, Senegal, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Switzerland, Tanzania, Turkiye, Uganda, Venezuela and Zambia.

Kagame secured a landslide victory in last week’s general election, garnering 99.18% of the votes. He defeated main opponent leader, Dr. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana.

Haitham bin Tarik, the Sultan and Prime Minister of Oman, is among the leaders who warmly congratulated Kagame and wished him success in leading the people of Rwanda towards further progress and prosperity.
His Majesty Tarik also expressed his commitment to deepen ties between the two friendly nations of Oman and Rwanda.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco also led African leaders in sending congratulatory messages to Kagame for his re-election in the just concluded presidential election.

The King expressed his warm congratulations on the Rwandan people’s renewed trust in Kagame’s competencies and ability to lead the country towards further achievements, progress and prosperity.

“I take this opportunity to reaffirm my determination to continue working with the President of the Republic of Rwanda to strengthen the fraternal relations rooted in mutual esteem between the two countries,” he said in a statement.

“I commit to reinforce the fruitful Moroccan-Rwandan cooperation, serving both people’s shared interests and promoting integration and solidarity between African countries,” he added.

Some of the messages seen by IGIHE include those from Presidents in the East African region.
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni said Kagame’s re-election was a testament to the trust and confidence the people of Rwanda have in his leadership.

Kenya’s President William Ruto, on his part, wished Kagame success as he continues to steer Rwanda in the “path of peace, stability and posterity”.

“I look forward to continuing working with you in regional and Pan-African affairs in strengthening the bonds of solidarity and fraternity between the peoples of Kenya and Rwanda.”

Tanzanian Head of State Samia Suluhu pledged to continue partnering with Kagame to foster ties between the two neighbouring countries.

“On behalf of the Government and the People of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency Paul Kagame, on being re-elected as the President of the Republic of Rwanda. I look forward to continue working with you in fostering the relations between our two countries and in the pursuit of East Africa’s unity and prosperity,” she stated.

The final results show that Kagame won with 99.18% of the vote, receiving 8,822,794 votes from Rwandans. Dr. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda came in second with 44,479 votes (0.50%), while Philippe Mpayimana finished third with 28,466 votes (0.32%).

The election, held on July 14 and 15, 2024, was characterized by peace and transparency, as confirmed by various observers, including those from the African Union in partnership with Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the East African Community (EAC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF), and the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).

Kagame will be the first to lead Rwanda for a five-year term following the 2015 constitutional amendment that reduced the presidential term from seven years to five.

On Sunday, while receiving some of the people who played a role in the successful campaign, Paul Kagame stated that the focus now is on fulfilling the promises made to the citizens during the campaign.

Following the announcement of the final election results, the swearing-in ceremony of the President-elect must take place within 30 days.