By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Kigali, Rwanda – President Paul Kagame was sworn in for a fourth term as the leader of Rwanda, extending his 24-year rule over the East African nation on 11-08-2024.
In a ceremony attended by dignitaries, including African heads of state and representatives, Kagame took the oath of office, pledging to continue Rwanda’s trajectory of economic growth, social development, and regional integration.
Notable attendees included South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Ugandan Vice President Jesca Alupo representing President Yoweri Museveni, and Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe.
Also in attendance was General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Ugandan Chief of Defence Forces and son of President Yoweri Museveni.
The oath was administered by Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo at an inauguration ceremony attended by thousands of Rwandans, as well as heads of state and government from countries across Africa.
In his inaugural speech, Kagame described the ceremony as a day of renewal and gratitude. “I can only begin by thanking all Rwandans for putting your trust and confidence in me. It is an honor to serve as your president for another term,” he said.
Kagame reflected on Rwanda’s progress, saying, “Indeed, it is beyond what words can describe, given where we started from. Our tragic past ignited a fire in each one of us: a fire of hope, resilience, and justice. This is who we have become as Rwandans.”
He also emphasized the importance of truth and justice, stating, “There is no longer room for the powerful to impose their vision about how others ought to live, or to create narratives that falsify the truth. This must always be resisted, even when under pressure.”
Regarding regional peace and cooperation, Kagame said, “Peace in our region is a priority for Rwanda, yet it has been lacking, particularly in eastern DRC.
But peace cannot be delivered by anyone from anywhere, no matter how powerful if the party most directly concerned does not do what is needed.”
Kagame’s leadership has been marked by significant economic growth, with Rwanda becoming one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
However, his presidency has also been criticized for its authoritarian nature, human rights concerns, and limited political space for opposition voices.
As Kagame begins his new term, attention will focus on his plans to address these concerns, maintain regional stability, and further solidify Rwanda’s position as a key player in African affairs.
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