Marie Mukantabana, 52,
Vice President, Senate (Parliamentary Affairs)

The First Senate accomplished so much. You will recall that we did not even have an office nor personnel, or structures within which to operate when the institution started in 2003.

Today, it’s a different picture; we have systems and structures that are sufficient to help the Senate deliver on its mission. I intend to remain active in politics when my term expires, but I may also join the private sector depending on the available opportunities and circumstances.

Stephanie Mukantagara, 49 (Vice-Chairperson, Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Human Rights and Public Petitions) – Replaced Dr Odette Nyiramirimo (now EALA member) in August, 2008.

Quality education is something that we kept advocating for as senators, especially members of my standing committee.

I must say that I am pleased with the way the government is now putting a lot of efforts in improving the quality of our education system. Even though I only joined the Senate in 2008, I don’t feel cheated because I think I have made my contribution.

As a member of PL (political party), I will remain politically active and available for any other official duties.

Prosper Higiro, 50, Vice President, Senate (Finance and Administration)

Those who will come after us will have the opportunity to build on the foundation we have carefully laid.

At the beginning, we were working from rented premises, until the Parliamentary Buildings were refurbished and expanded. Personally, I am happy for having had the opportunity to serve my country in various positions.

Having been a member of the First Senate is a huge privilege and I am satisfied with my involvement. I am yet to come up with concrete plans on what I will do after here. I will remain active in politics.

I intend to continue using my vast experience– including eight years as a senator, seven years in the Pan African Parliament and earlier stints as a Cabinet minister and member of the Transitional National Assembly – to contribute to my country’s development. I will remain available for any public duties.

Dr Alivera Mukabaramba, 49 (Member, Standing Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights)

Over the past eight years, we’re privileged to have a vastly experienced (Senate) president in Dr Vincent Biruta. He and several other members, who were previously in the Transitional National Assembly, where I was also a member for nearly five years, provided the guidance to colleagues who were not familiar with parliamentary business.

We started off from nowhere but were able to build the institution quickly.

Yet, I wouldn’t say it was so difficult for us because everything we did was guided by the law. I am proud of our accomplishments as the First Senate. Being a Member of Parliament is the best job I have had in my lifetime.

I intend to remain politically active as a member and president of PPC (political party), but I really can’t tell whether or not I will be assigned other official duties.

Ends