The Government is considering setting up polling stations for members of the Diaspora in some vast countries to cater for those who reside far from Rwanda’s embassies. Foreign Affairs minister and Government Spokesperson Louise Mushikiwabo said this could be implemented before the next year’s presidential election. “Embassies cannot be close to everyone, some countries are big, but that can’t justify failure to provide alternatives. We are working hand in hand with the National Electoral Commission on how to increase polling stations,” Mushikiwabo said. She was responding to queries raised by some Rwandans at the ongoing National Dialogue, who said they were finding it difficult to participate in elections. John Kijuli, a resident of Edmonton in western Canada, said several Rwandans failed to participate in constitutional referendum last year because of the long distance from embassies. “While the law says that people have to go vote at the embassies, we request the government to intervene and make it simple ahead of the forthcoming presidential election,” he said. An estimated 40,000 Rwandans were expected to take part in the referendum vote at 32 Rwandan embassies around the world last year. Mushikiwabo said Rwanda’s envoys have been tasked to consult what laws in host countries provide for with regards to foreign voters. The Government is also consulting with foreign embassies in the country for lasting solution, she added. “We have agreed to work with other Rwandans in affected countries, even if they are not employees of the embassies, but with credible reputation, to conduct elections on behalf of the commission and that will solve those concerns,” she said. Rwandans in the Diaspora go to the polls on August 3, next year, while those in the country will cast their vote on August 4. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
