Paul Kagame sworn in as Rwanda's President for Fourth term

Paul Kagame, Rwanda's president, was sworn in for a fourth term on August 11, 2024, after winning 99.18% of the vote in the July 15, 2024 election. Kagame has been in power since 1994, having won at least 93% of the vote in all four presidential elections.

Election Results and Inauguration

Paul Kagame sworn in for fourth term as Rwanda's president on August 11, 2024
Won 99.18% vote in the July 15, 2024 election
Inauguration ceremony held in a packed 45,000-seat stadium in Kigali
Several African heads of state and dignitaries attended
Kagame took the oath of office before Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo
Pledged to "preserve peace and na4tional sovereignty, consolidate national unity"
Vowed not to use powers for personal interests
Large crowd gathered, including many young supporters

Kagame's Political Career and Influence

In power since 1994, following the Rwandan genocide
Officially became president in 2000
Won at least 93% of the vote in all four presidential elections
Oversaw constitutional amendments in 2015, allowing him to potentially rule until 2034
65% of Rwanda's population is under 30, knowing only Kagame's leadership
Credited with rebuilding Rwanda after the 1994 genocide
Aims to transform Rwanda into the "Singapore of Africa"
Improved infrastructure, including making Kigali one of Africa's cleanest cities
Hosted events like Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and international concerts

Criticisms and Human Rights Concerns

Election faced heavy criticism for lack of fairness
Only two candidates allowed to run against Kagame out of eight applicants
Accusations of voter intimidation and silencing of opposition
Human rights activists point to a climate of fear in the country
Reports of intimidation, arbitrary detentions, killings, and disappearances of opponents
Limitations on free speech and press freedom
Criticism of Kagame's government for alleged involvement in DR Congo conflict
UN report claimed 4,000 Rwandan troops in DR Congo, supporting M23 rebel group

Rwanda's History and Regional Relations

1994 Rwandan genocide resulted in approximately 800,000 deaths, mostly Tutsis
Genocide lasted about 100 days, preceded by years of ethnic tension
Kagame credited with helping end the genocide
Rwanda seen as a model for post-conflict reconciliation
Improved economy and technological progress under Kagame's leadership
Strong supporter of gender equality, with Rwanda having the highest percentage of women in parliament globally
Tensions with neighboring DR Congo due to alleged support of M23 rebels
Rwandan troops twice invaded DR Congo, citing pursuit of Hutu militias linked to 1994 genocide
Recent ceasefire agreement brokered by Angola, but violence continues

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