VIDEO: Democracy is about making our own choices, Kagame tells Nyamasheke

RPF-Inkotanyi presidential flag bearer, Paul Kagame, has told voters in Western Province’s Nyamasheke District that working in unity as citizens will help Rwandans win any struggles, rallying them to vote for him in the forthcoming poll to fast-track national development. Campaigning in the district on Saturday, Kagame said that he will bring more industries in the area to boost employment, build more public infrastructure like roads and schools, and connect more citizens to water and electricity. “Let’s build security, unity, and development of Rwandans and ensure that their rights are promoted so they can work together and partner with other countries to develop themselves,” he said. The candidate said that no one will be left behind in the country’s transformation process. “Democracy is about giving every citizen the right to make their own choices. In our type of democracy here in Rwanda, no one is left behind. There is no discrimination. Every Rwandan has got the right to live their lives the way they want it and make their own choices,” he said. He added: “When we are united toward the same goal, there is nothing we cannot achieve and we are not afraid of fighting for it.” Welcoming the incumbent president in Nyamasheke, MP Edouard Bamporiki who hails from the area said that Nyamasheke residents are not ready to retire him from the top job, indicating that they are ready to vote for him on August 4 so he can continue to lead them to prosperity and stability. Thousands of residents here welcomed the candidate at Mataba playground of Sainte Famille Secondary School in Kagano Sector, a place they turned into a venue for celebrations as they praised Kagame’s governance approach. They credit him for having been a guarantor of security in their communities and across the country, empowering women, improved infrastructure including roads and schools, increasing the number of health clinics, and connecting more households to electricity and water. They pointed to the support his government has extended to senior citizens who get cash gifts through VUP (Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme). Residents of the district also point to the increased economic prosperity that has resulted from the set up of a tea processing plant in the area, as well as the cross-border markets that facilitate trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). “I think about the good things Kagame has done for us and feel really happy. I am ready to support him by going to vote very early in the morning on August 4,” said Libérée Mukagahizi, a local business woman who sells shoes and clothes. David Twishimane, a local tea farmer, said that development and security for citizens are for tangible results achieved under the incumbent’s government and that he is ready to support him in the election. “Look at Mutuelle de Santé that helps everyone to see a doctor, look at schools that have helped every child to get education; all of these things should continue and the choice for us in this election is clear, it’s Paul Kagame,” he said. Pascal Rugamba, 60, told Sunday Times, that he wants to hit 65 years old and retire when Kagame is president because he will be assured of social support during his old age. “He is a good parent who has taken good care of the old and the poor. We will vote for him 100 per cent. We are already dreaming about the Election Day and we know he is our most legitimate leader,” he said. The RPF candidate’s rally in Nyamasheke on Saturday was the last one held in the Western Province after he had earlier this week held other rallies in the province’s other districts. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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VIDEO: Democracy is about making our own choices, Kagame tells Nyamasheke