During the start of his election campaign, Paul Kagame, the Chairman and presidential candidate of RPF-Inkotanyi and its allied parties, appealed to Rwandans to show their support in the upcoming elections by invoking a traditional saying that emphasizes returning good deeds.
Speaking to a large crowd at Gisa site in Rubavu District, Kagame asked for votes as a way to acknowledge the party’s contributions to national development.
Thousands of RPF members and supporters from neighboring districts gathered to hear Kagame speak.
He highlighted the importance of continued cooperation and action beyond the campaign, linking the party’s initiatives to the cultural practice of gifting cows, which symbolizes love and development.
Kagame stressed that just as the party has contributed to the people’s well-being, it is now their turn to reciprocate by voting.
“On July 15, we will choose unity, democracy, and development,” Kagame said. “But what truly matters are the actions that realize our aspirations. Merely talking about it won’t achieve anything.”
He called on all Rwandans, both within the country and abroad, to actively participate and help build on Rwanda’s unity and development goals.
Kagame emphasized that the RPF-led coalition of eight parties is dedicated to taking concrete actions to further these objectives.
Security, according to Kagame, is a fundamental aspect of creating an environment conducive to development.
He praised the collaboration between citizens and security forces, which has maintained the country’s stability and ensured continuous progress.
“The more we build, the stronger our security system becomes, allowing for sustained development,” he remarked.
Kagame also thanked the leaders of political parties that have allied with RPF-Inkotanyi, acknowledging their support as crucial during the campaign.
He underscored the importance of trust and unity as the foundation of Rwanda’s development, advocating for a collective effort to accelerate the country’s growth.
The RPF’s manifesto for the next five years (2024-2029) includes plans to increase agricultural and manufacturing productivity, create new jobs, develop infrastructure, and position Rwanda as an investment and financial hub.
Additionally, the party aims to boost tourism and mineral revenues and advance technology adoption, including enhancing the use of Artificial Intelligence.
As Kagame faces off against Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana in the elections on July 14-15, his call for inclusive development and shared responsibility resonates strongly with Rwandans who are eager for continued progress.
