President Paul Kagame of Rwanda is gearing up for a fourth term in office, having secured an astounding 99.15% of the vote in the recent election, which saw only two challengers.
The results were evident from the outset, as Kagame, who has led Rwanda for nearly three decades, continued to dominate. Candidates from the Democratic Green Party and independents, Philippe Mpayimana and Frank Habineza, garnered just 0.53% and 0.32% of the vote, respectively, with 79% of ballots counted.
Kagame’s victory of 99.15% surpassed the 98.79% he received in the previous election seven years ago. Speaking from his party’s headquarters hours after polls closed, Kagame thanked the Rwandan people for their support, emphasizing the significance of the overwhelming vote.
“These results reflect not just numbers, but the trust of the people, which is most important. I am hopeful that together we can address all challenges,” he said.
The National Electoral Commission confirmed the electoral process was conducted safely and transparently for Rwandans both at home and abroad. With 65% of the population under 30, Kagame is the only leader most Rwandans have known.
At 66, Kagame is credited with rebuilding Rwanda after the 1994 genocide, yet he faces criticism for ruling through fear and contributing to instability in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.
Over nine million Rwandans, including around two million first-time voters, were registered for the election, held alongside legislative elections for the first time. Kagame’s previous victories include more than 93% of the vote in 2003, 2010, and 2017, where he easily defeated the same opponents.
