President Paul Kagame at a campaign rally in Nyarugenge
KIGALI, Rwanda
President Paul Kagame had a landslide victory as he captured 98.6 percent of the cast ballots far ahead of his two challengers Philippe Mpayimana, an independent and Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda. His third term in office will see him at the presidency for another seven years. A constitutional amendment in 2015 that removed term limits could see him be in power until 2034. In his victory speech, he urged all Rwandans to work together including those who didn't vote for him.
Kagame has in recent years come under fire for alleged human rights abuses and suppression of the press. His supporters, however, have pointed out to Rwanda's incredible growth and stability in a little over two decades which is remarkable for a country with little resources. Infant mortality rates and poverty rates have dropped significantly under his tenure. We here at the Briefing Room congratulate Kagame on his victory and wish Rwandans success as they strive to achieve Vision 2030 and attain middle-income status.
