Kagame’s victory an opportunity to take Rwanda to the next level

During the August 4 presidential elections, Rwandans decided to consolidate the country’s achievements under the leadership of President Kagame Paul. This was confirmed by the landslide victory of over 98 per cent of the votes cast, which is an emphatic vote of confidence. This massive win should not be taken for granted. It is not only an opportunity, but also a challenge to both the President-elect and his team, but also to those in the opposition. Rwandans have expressed their confidence in the current leadership, thus confirming that there was no reason to change their Chief Executive Officer, who proved to be both a good leader and manager. They are satisfied with his performance. Rwandans have spoken against those who want to take them backward. As we move forward, it is imperative to keep the momentum. However, as there were voices or actions that pulled us backward, either by seeking endless explanations or by challenging whatever step was taken, Rwandans resolved not to speak by words but by action. Good people and good numbers don’t lie. Rwandans have expressed themselves and stated clearly what they want. By overwhelmingly voting for President Kagame, they decided on their destiny: unity, security, continuity and prosperity. It is good there were opposition and independent candidates, with all kinds of supporters – national and otherwise. They tasted democracy ‘made in Rwanda’ where consensus prevailed over confrontation. These elections saw high level of political education and maturity in the electorate. Both campaigns and elections were incident-free. The two other candidates congratulated the RPF and its candidate as they conceded defeat. This is purely made in Rwanda. It is very unfortunate that those who never concede defeat, or believe what Rwandans are capable of, are still speculating. Press releases and statements are still being churned out, even by those who never observed the elections, alleging irregularities in the electoral process. Surprisingly, such reports are in total contrast with the field observers’ reports. A pertinent question here needs to be asked; how can an ‘armchair’ observer issue a statement contradicting the field observers on what happened on the ground? A simple logic shall establish the truth from the field observer who saw what happened. This landslide victory is an opportunity for President Kagame and his team to continue doing what they do best. Rwandans have demonstrated how united and committed they are to work with them. It is also a very big challenge, because Rwandans shall always be demanding more of and holding their leaders accountable. Those who trusted President Kagame – including the candidates who conceded defeat – shall demand for accountability from his government. This is a golden opportunity for Rwanda’s leadership to consolidate what has been achieved. Above all, this landslide victory is a challenge to President Kagame himself. Rwandans have voted for his manifesto. He is a true statesman, a man of action, who walks the talk and has no room for speculation. He is a citizen-centered leader, a voice of the voiceless, who champions the unity of Africa and the dignity of Africans. And he promised to remain our “Shock Absorber”. African Heads of State endorsed Rwanda to chair the African Union Summit come 2018 and now Rwandans have elected Kagame as their President for the next seven years. The new mandate gives President Kagame an opportunity to continue championing his country’s and Africa’s true independence and self-reliance. Good luck to him and to all of the people of Rwanda as we continue to march forward. The writer is a political analyst and a member of the Pan-African Movement, Rwanda Chapter.

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Kagame’s victory an opportunity to take Rwanda to the next level