Rwanda's Presidential Election

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
President Paul Kagame wins 99% of the vote in Rwanda's presidential election, extending his three-decade grip on power. His opponents collectively received less than 1% of the vote. Final results expected by July 27. Kagame has been in power since 1994 after ending the genocide, and critics have raised concerns about his authoritarian rule.

Key Points

  • Kagame wins 99% of the vote, expected to extend rule until 2034
  • Opponents received less than 1% of the vote
  • Fears of insecurity in the Great Lakes region with Rwandan forces fighting in neighboring Congo

Pros

  • President Kagame's leadership has been credited with impressive growth in Rwanda since the genocide
  • Stability and security in the country under Kagame's rule

Cons

  • Concerns over authoritarian rule and restrictions on human rights in Rwanda
  • Criticism of electoral process with opponents receiving minimal votes