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Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri
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Commentary: People’s democracy — a glimpse into China’s unique approach
Over 5,000 legislators and political advisors gather in Beijing for the sessions of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
The gathering is more than a mere legislative exercise. It represents China’s brand of democracy, featuring the Party’s leadership, the people running the country, and law-based governance.
Some Western observers often overlook or ignore the extensive consultation involved. Opinions from diverse groups — including experts, entrepreneurs and netizens — are solicited through various channels for the government work report before the NPC’s annual session.
The Great Hall of the People echoes with diverse voices channeled through legislators and political advisors. This inclusive approach is seen as the hallmark of a functional democracy.
Whole-process people’s democracy is a true democracy that works.
In response to suggestions and proposals raised during last year’s “two sessions,” the State Council introduced over 2,000 policies and measures, addressing key economic and social challenges. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, for instance, acted on 962 suggestions and proposals, leading to substantial employment and entrepreneurship initiatives.
China is also innovating in terms of democratic participation. Last year, the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC Standing Committee expanded its local legislative outreach offices, ensuring direct representation of local voices in national lawmaking.
Public engagement in the drafting of laws is evident, with draft laws open for public comment through the website of the NPC in 2023.
NPC deputies address diverse issues, from local infrastructure needs to industry development, enhancing citizens’ sense of happiness and fulfillment. The CPPCC is an integral part of China’s system of multiparty cooperation and political consultation under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. It promotes unity and strengthens multiparty cooperation.
China’s approach to democracy emphasizes people-centered development and ensures people take part in democratic elections, consultations, decision-making, management, and oversight.
China’s approach to democracy contributes to maintaining unity and stability and achieving economic growth, in contrast to the political and social divides in some Western nations.
According to a survey by France-based consulting group Ipsos last year, approximately one in two people in countries including the United States and Britain are dissatisfied with the way democracy is working in their countries.
No democratic model is universal or perfect, nor is democracy a once-and-for-all cause. The political system that suits a country best is the most appropriate. China’s creation of its own democratic system has explored a new path for the development of human democracy.
As the myth of Western democratic supremacy is fading, China’s whole-process people’s democracy offers a distinct perspective on governance and alternative insights for global development.
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Gakenke: Young man arrested over alleged defilement
The girl, a second-grade primary school student, was assaulted at the end of last week when she was coming back from fetching water.
A resident of the area told IGIHE that the incident happened on Sunday, March 3, 2024.
According to the report, the residents of Kamubuga village in Mubuga sector rushed to the scene after hearing the girl’s screams for help in a small forest, finding the young man in the act.
The Executive Secretary of Kamubuga Sector, Duniya Sa’adi, has told IGIHE that the 20-year-old suspect has been apprehended and handed over to Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB).
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Ugandan Policemen detained for stealing from Rwandan national
The spokesperson for the Ugandan Police in the Kigezi region of southwestern Uganda, Elly Maate, on March 3, 2023, announced that the apprehended officers include Gracious Tusiime, aged 25, and his accomplice Zechariah Ekiyankundire, aged 26.
The spokesperson revealed that on March 1, 2024, a 38-year-old Rwandan national, who had come to Uganda for business at the Katuna border, was targeted.
At that time, it is alleged that the officers demanded a bribe from the Rwandan national.
Maate said, “It is alleged that these two police officers stole 85000 Rwandan Francs from the Rwandan national and used force to compel him to use a different route from the officially designated one for crossing back to Rwanda.”
Maate continued to explain that the Rwandan national initially resisted the demands of the officers but later succumbed to giving money to one of the employees of the Department of Immigration and Emigration on the Ugandan side of the Katuna border.
The employee in question has also been interrogated by his colleague in the Police Traffic and Road Safety Unit at Katuna to ensure further investigation.
The head of the Katuna Police Unit has urged these officers to explain their actions, however, they deny any wrongdoing. He has also informed the Kabale Police of the incident for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Nation reports that the Chief of Police in Kabale, Joseph Bakaleke, together with his colleague in charge of criminal investigations in this region, Hakim Mukama, have been suspended pending an investigation into this case, gathering evidence from eyewitnesses.
Maate also mentioned that until today, these police officers involved in corruption are not yet released while the investigation continues.
The Uganda Police Report shows crimes committed in 2023, indicating that Ugandans have lost billions of Ugandan Shillings and other valuable assets worth billions 1800.
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Rwanda becomes first African country to host Green Climate Fund Board Meeting
Scheduled from March 4th to 7th, 2023, the meeting brought together GCF Board members to discuss various environmental protection projects.
Rwanda, the first African country to host this meeting, has been actively involved in projects with the GCF aimed at conserving the environment.
The ‘Green Gicumbi Project’ in Gicumbi District is one such initiative, aimed at combating climate change and fostering an eco-friendly economy.
Currently in its fourth year, the project is expected to run for six years with an estimated cost of $32 million.
Another key initiative is the TREPA project, focused on enhancing climate resilience for communities in the Eastern region. With a six-year timeframe, it includes afforestation and agroforestry on over 70,000 hectares, with a budget of $33 million.
By the end of 2023, the GCF had approved an $80 million investment to strengthen Rwanda’s environmental protection efforts.
During the event’s welcoming ceremony, GCF Director Mafalda Duarte commended Rwanda for its efficient utilization of GCF funds for environmental projects.
She highlighted that Rwanda is a good example of Green Climate Fund’s success, considering various projects that provide solutions in environmental protection.
“We are ready to continue working with you and support you in achieving your vision as a country,” said Mafalda Duarte.
Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, expressed gratitude to the GCF for selecting Rwanda as the meeting’s venue and conveyed her hopes for future meetings in Rwanda.
She highlighted the significant benefits Rwanda has experienced since joining the GCF in 2015 and the extensive discussions on environmental protection planned for the meeting.
In 2022, Rwanda launched the ‘Ireme Invest’ fund to support private sector projects aimed at developing an environmentally sustainable economy, which has since received 127 billion Rwandan Francs in investments.
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Rwanda invested $1.2 billion to expand access to electricity in three years
The nationwide electrification is part of initiatives to accelerate the economic growth of the Rwandan people and the country as a whole. Under the seven-year plan, which is set to conclude in July 2024, the goal is to achieve 100% electrification in all households.
{The Energy Development Corporation Limited (EDCL) has announced that over the past three years, the Rwandan Government has invested 1.2 billion US dollars in electricity distribution projects, aiming to reach 900,000 households across the country.} with numerous programs underway in different districts to extend service to those still without.
As he featured in a talk show dubbed “Kubaza Bitera Kumenya” on March 3, 2024, EDCL’s Managing Director, Felix Gakuba, stated that plans are in place at all administrative levels, from the village to the district, to ensure that electricity reaches every citizen soon.
Gakuba emphasized that achieving full electrification is feasible, considering the substantial progress made compared to the remaining tasks. He noted that with the strategies in place and the funds secured, it’s only a matter of time before the remaining households are electrified, especially as no sector lacks an electrification project.
In areas without access to the main grid, solar energy is utilized, with the remaining distances to the existing networks often not exceeding two kilometers. This small gap provides hope that the electrification of all Rwandan households is imminent, supported by the government’s significant investment.
The Rwanda Energy Group (REG) reported that as of January 2024, 21% of electrified households use solar energy, while 55% are connected to the main grid.
The Acting Director General for Energy at MININFRA, Jean Bosco Mugiraneza, announced forthcoming agreements with the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, totaling 400 million dollars, to further electrification efforts.
Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka, the Mayor of Nyaruguru District, highlighted the positive impact of electrification on local development, including extended working hours, improved hygiene and security, and the growth of local industries.
By 2023, REG’s electricity generation capacity reached 383.4 megawatts, up from 276 megawatts in 2022. The financial year ending in June 2023 saw 259,068 households electrified, bringing the total to 2,538,449 across Rwanda.
The 2023/2024 budget for nationwide electrification is set at 193 billion Rwandan Francs, including a 74.3 billion Francs project in collaboration with the World Bank, a 25.1 billion Francs project with the African Development Bank, and an 18.5 billion Francs government program (EARP), along with the construction of the Nyabarongo II Hydropower plant, expected to produce 43.5 megawatts, with a budget of 10.1 billion Francs for the year.
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Makolo urges DRC leaders to learn from President Kagame
She made the comments on Sunday 3rd March 2024, through a message posted on X. Makolo was responding to African Stream news outlet which ran an article reading that there are Congolese who are wary of him even though he is a popular figure in many African countries.
The article from this media outlet revealed some Congolese voices claiming Rwanda and President Paul Kagame support the M23 rebel group, asserting this as a reason for those who dislike him.
In her response, Yolande Makolo stated that President Kagame is a leader who has achieved much, which is why some Africans see him as a hero.
She mentioned, “What President Kagame has accomplished as a Rwandan and as an African hero speaks for itself and cannot be erased. Together with the RPF, he is an African leader who set out to liberate, rebuild, and defend Rwanda, and this is what he continues to do.”
Makolo further commented, “A new generation of Rwandans inspired & empowered by this leadership continues the work. This is why Africans admire him. We are all Africans.”
She indicated that President Kagame’s achievements should serve as a model for leaders in the DRC.
“DRC leaders should do the same for their country (that’s if they care), stop scapegoating, distracting their people with lies and expecting others to do the work that they should be doing themselves,” she added.
Makolo made the observation amid strained relations between Rwanda and the DRC, with the latter accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which opposes the government due to grievances expressed by Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese citizens.
President Tshisekedi recently addressed those involved in the security crisis in North Kivu, stating that Congo would be satisfied only if Rwanda was sanctioned.
Rwanda, on the other hand, refutes the allegations and argues that instead of addressing its issues, Congo tries to blame others, even to the extent of collaborating with groups like the FDLR, responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Rwanda demands that the DRC government cease its cooperation with the FDLR, disarm the group, and repatriate its members to Rwanda. Rwanda believes that this is the only way to ensure its security and maintain the unity that Rwandans have worked hard to achieve.
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Mining accidents claim three lives in Karongi and Rwamagana
Following the accident, Valentine Mukase, the Mayor of Karongi District, reported that the bodies were swiftly recovered and taken to Kibuye Referral Hospital for examination before being returned to their families for burial.
Mukase expressed condolences to the bereaved families and warnined against illegal mining activities, emphasizing the district’s commitment to legal enforcement and encouraging alternative lawful employment in agriculture, livestock farming, trade, and craftsmanship.
In a related incident in Rwamagana, another mining pit operated by Trinity Musha Society in the Musha Sector collapsed on March 2, 2024, claiming one life and endangering two others, who were fortunately rescued alive.
The accident occurred in Kagarama Village, Kagarama Cell, prompting Jean Claude Rwagasana, the Executive Secretary of Musha Sector, to call for rigorous site assessments and adherence to safety regulations among miners.
These incidents highlight the perilous nature of unauthorized and unsafe mining practices, prompting local authorities in both Karongi and Rwamagana to advocate for enhanced safety measures, regulatory compliance, and the pursuit of legal mining operations.
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Rwanda considers lowering Value Added Tax
Speaking on a Radio Rwanda talk show on Saturday, Ruganintwali highlighted that the ongoing review has identified VAT as a significant financial burden for citizens. This is largely because individuals are taxed on their income (PAYE) and subsequently taxed again through VAT on their purchases. Although traders have the option to claim refunds for the VAT paid on their inventory if the VAT collected from sales is lower, such a mechanism is not available for the end consumers.
Ruganintwali elaborated, “We are exploring the possibility of reducing the VAT rate from the current 18% to potentially 10%. This initiative, however, is contingent upon widening the base for income tax. Given that individuals earn income, it is only fair they contribute their share in taxes.” He believes that an increase in the number of income taxpayers could bolster overall tax revenue, thus facilitating a reduction in VAT. “Implementing this plan is challenging and requires a shift in the collective mindset towards understanding the importance of minimizing tax obligations on all earnings.”
The review encompasses a thorough examination of all tax categories and is slated for completion by the end of 2024. Immediate actions will be taken based on feasible recommendations. “We anticipate a detailed report by year’s end, covering the spectrum of domestic taxes and those internationally applicable that we might adopt, such as taxes on the digital economy,” Ruganintwali mentioned.
Given the existing legislative framework, a business must have a physical establishment in Rwanda and operate within the country for a consecutive period of 183 days to be subjected to taxation. However, advancements in technology now allow businesses to operate virtually from any location. Ruganintwali pointed out, “Globally, steps are being taken to combat tax erosion caused by the digital economy. We are committed to conducting thorough research and engaging with stakeholders to introduce this form of taxation responsibly, ensuring public familiarity and consent.”
{{Enhancing VAT collection through EBM}}
The adoption of Electronic Billing Machine (EBM) technology has been instrumental in significantly increasing VAT collection. Since its inception in 2013, targeting initially only registered taxpayers, the requirement to use EBMs has been extended to all business entities. From the fiscal year 2013/14 to 2022/2023, VAT revenue surged by 170.0%, from 259.1 billion to 699.3 billion Rwandan francs, concurrently amplifying income tax collections from 120.2 billion to 538.3 billion Rwandan francs.
To motivate traders further in utilizing EBMs, the government has introduced a reward system offering 10% of the VAT indicated on the invoice to customers. Additionally, customers who report non-compliance by traders in issuing invoices are entitled to 50% of the fines levied against the offending traders.
Ruganintwali disclosed plans for an imminent sector-wide inspection to scrutinize the issuance of EBM invoices. The investigation aims to address non-compliance among traders, some of whom avoid issuing invoices either due to the dubious acquisition of goods or intentions to evade tax. “We are determined to uncover the reasons behind the failure to issue invoices. Effective immediately, individuals caught engaging in such activities will face public exposure as deterrents, emphasizing that VAT is an obligation of the consumer, not a discretionary charge by the trader.”
Individuals must register in a new system being developed by the RRA to qualify for the reward, with the system’s completion expected shortly. Rewards will be issued quarterly.
As discussions on VAT adjustments progress, the government continues to implement legislative measures aimed at alleviating the tax burden on taxpayers, including notable tax reductions. For instance, the corporate income tax rate was reduced from 50% to 30% in 2005 and further to 28% recently, with aspirations to reduce it to 20%. Additionally, the tax exemption threshold for employee benefits was raised from 15,000 to 60,000 Rwandan francs, alongside tax reductions for subsequent income brackets.
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Shenzhou-17 crew completes in-orbit repairs during 2nd extravehicular mission
Taikonauts Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin successfully completed all assigned tasks at 1:32 p.m. (Beijing time), after approximately eight hours of extravehicular activities. They worked together closely with the support of the space station’s robotic arm and scientific researchers on Earth.
A spacewalk was conducted by Tang Hongbo and Jiang Xinlin, who have since returned safely to the Wentian lab module.
China launched the Shenzhou-17 manned spaceship on Oct. 26, 2023. Its crew conducted a repair test in their first extravehicular mission on Dec. 21 last year.
During their second extravehicular mission, the three taikonauts completed maintenance work on the Tianhe core module’s solar wings, addressing the impact of small space particles. According to the agency, the solar wing’s power generation function is operating normally after evaluation and analysis.
It was the first time the taikonauts completed the in-orbit maintenance of extravehicular facilities. The Shenzhou-17 crew also inspected the status of the space station’s modules during their spacewalk.
The three taikonauts are scheduled to carry out a variety of space science and technology experiments during the remainder of their space journey, the agency said.
