A Rwandan activist, Diane Rwigara, known for her criticism of President Paul Kagame, has announced her intention to contest against him in the upcoming July election.
Rwigara’s bid for presidency in 2017 was thwarted on technical grounds, following which she faced imprisonment, alongside her mother and sister, on charges of tax evasion and inciting insurrection—a move she claimed was politically motivated.
However, Rwigara was acquitted of all charges in 2018 and subsequently released.
President Kagame, who has held a significant influence in Rwandan politics since 1994, secured an overwhelming victory in the previous election with almost 99% of the votes.
Several rights groups have raised concerns, accusing the government of targeting critics and dissenters.
