President Paul Kagame has urged members of the ruling Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) to remain steadfast in the party’s long-held stance against corruption, despite changing times that may require renewed or different approaches in combating the vice.

He made the remarks on Friday, December 19, during the party’s 17th congress, which attracted more than 2,200 members and invited guests at its headquarters in Rusororo, Kigali.

"In governance, the principles we must uphold are rooted in our history, our words, and the actions we strive for. The RPF has always prioritised the fight against corruption. That principle does not change," he said.

"The principle of fighting corruption from 31 years ago cannot be abandoned simply because we now live in a world that tolerates corruption, whatever that world may be. Rather, what changes are the methods we use to fight it," he added.

Kagame noted that while the commitment to fighting corruption remains unchanged, the methods used may evolve depending on circumstances and developments over time.

At the same event, veteran politician and diplomat Christophe Bazivamo was appointed Secretary General of the party, replacing Wellars Gasamagera, who had held the position since 2023.

RPF members also adopted reforms to the party’s leadership structure, including the establishment of a Council of Elders.

The congress further approved new members of the Executive Committee, appointing Consolée Uwimana as First Vice Chairperson, Marie Solange Kayisire as Second Vice Chairperson, and Stephen Gasana Karasanyi as Deputy Secretary General.