Gasamagera was selected by the Forum of Political Organisations legally operating in Rwanda to replace Donatille Mukabalisa, who died in July 2026.
Niyonshuti was elected to represent the youth, replacing Venuste Icyitegetse, who resigned from the position in June 2026 for personal reasons.
President Kagame said the swearing-in ceremony was important because it comes with responsibilities to serve the country, reminding the two officials that their work goes beyond matters of legislation.
“Members of Parliament oversee many things, including matters related to government activities, and their work also extends to other institutions. To fulfil these responsibilities properly, they need knowledge, understanding and the right conduct. It is not only about making laws,” he said.
Kagame told the lawmakers that Rwanda’s culture requires leaders to go beyond merely complying with laws, particularly when addressing problems that need to be resolved so that citizens do not continue carrying burdens that could be addressed.
“Problems that can be resolved should be removed from people’s way, difficult ones should continually be addressed through collaboration,” he said.
The President said resources are often available to enable leaders to address challenges facing the country, but where they are insufficient, leaders should start with what can be done while seeking additional resources to address what cannot immediately be handled.
He said the swearing-in of Gasamagera and Niyonshuti should also serve as a reminder to others currently holding public responsibilities, as well as those who will take up such responsibilities in the future, to carry out their duties properly.
Gasamagera holds a PhD from Monarch Business School in Switzerland and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Université du Québec in Canada.
Between 1997 and 2001, he served as Prefect of the former Kigali Ngari Prefecture.
He has held various positions, including Rwanda’s Ambassador to Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe, Senator from 2003 to 2011, and Director General of the Rwanda Management Institute (RMI).
Gasamagera served as Secretary General of the RPF-Inkotanyi from 2023 until December 2025.
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