In a landslide victory, Rwandan President Paul Kagame secured another five-year term with 99% of the votes counted, extending his rule over the East African nation. Kagame, who has been in power for over two decades, faced familiar opponents in Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, who secured less than 1% of the vote combined.
The election was marked by controversy as several candidates, including long-time critic Victoire Ingabire and businesswoman Diane Rwigara, were barred from running. Despite facing accusations of human rights abuses, political restrictions, and stifling free speech, Kagame continues to receive mixed reviews, with some praising him for rebuilding Rwanda's economy.
Critics point to Kagame's authoritarian control over the country, arguing that his extended rule may lead to further suppression of political competition. Kagame's supporters, however, justify the restrictions as necessary measures to prevent a repeat of the 1994 genocide, which claimed the lives of nearly 800,000 people, mainly from Kagame's ethnic group.
Moreover, allegations of Rwanda's involvement in destabilizing neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo have surfaced, with reports of Rwandan troops supporting rebel militias. Despite Rwanda's denials, the situation remains a point of contention among regional stakeholders.
As Kagame secures another term, the future of Rwanda under his leadership remains a topic of debate, with concerns over political freedoms and regional stability lingering in the background.