President Paul Kagame, addressing a crowd in Kindama of Ruhuha, emphasized the privilege and responsibility of being a member of the RPF-Inkotanyi, highlighting the party’s dedication to development and independence. “Being a member of the RPF-Inkotanyi is a privilege because it is about working together for development,” Kagame stated, urging the audience to have the courage to assert their autonomy.
Kagame reiterated that the RPF is not merely a set of letters but a commitment to collective progress. “You should have the courage to look someone in the eye and tell them that they are not God,” he declared, emphasizing the party’s ethos of self-determination.
He assured that for Rwandans to achieve their desired quality of life, hard work is essential. Kagame issued a stern warning to those who seek to undermine the nation’s achievements, stating that such efforts would lead to severe consequences. He described those being used by deceivers as tools who will ultimately achieve nothing.
In his campaign, Kagame stressed that the benefits gained by one Rwandan should extend to others and the entire country. He also underscored the importance of mutual respect and peace between Rwanda and other nations.
Addressing the theme of ‘development,’ Kagame spoke about ensuring that no Rwandan should continuously struggle for basic needs such as education and food. “That is the path Rwanda is on,” he affirmed.
Kagame reminded the citizens about the significance of July 15, 2024, a crucial date for choosing the continuation of this path. The audience responded enthusiastically, invoking the symbol of the RPF-Inkotanyi, a fist, which signifies unity and strength.
The president highlighted the reciprocal relationship between the leader and the people. “I am because of you, and you should also be because of me,” he said, describing it as a mutual covenant.
Kagame also promised to provide for the residents of Bugesera, Ngoma, Kicukiro, and other areas, and to share a meal with them. “I am a neighbor to the people of Bugesera and I will find time to invite you to share a meal,” he assured, emphasizing the bond between him and the people due to shared experiences and history.
Reflecting on his decision to live in Bugesera, Kagame mentioned its historical significance, referring to the policy of sending Tutsis to Bugesera under the Habyarimana regime.
He highlighted the area’s dark past, where Tutsis were concentrated and subjected to violence. Kagame pointed out that Bugesera was chosen by the Belgians to demonstrate Rwanda’s progress towards independence to UN delegates, a plan that led to the isolation and control of the Tutsi population.
In Nyamata, a place called Nyirarukobwa remains a poignant reminder of the genocide, where many Tutsi families were exterminated. This history is documented by IBUKA, an organization dedicated to preserving the memory of the genocide.
Kagame’s decision to reside in Bugesera aims to showcase that it is a viable place to live, countering the notion that any part of Rwanda should be completely excluded. He acknowledged the area’s historical challenges, including the Tse-Tse fly, which caused sleeping sickness among the exiled Tutsis.
The RPF-Inkotanyi candidate, Paul Kagame, continues his campaign this Sunday in Nyagatare, before proceeding to Kayonza, reinforcing his commitment to reaching out to all Rwandans and reaffirming the party’s mission of development and unity.
