Rwandans headed to the polls on Monday to elect their president and parliamentary representatives, with incumbent Paul Kagame poised to secure a fourth term in office.
Kagame, who has ruled Rwanda since 2000, faces only two challengers, Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, after several prominent opposition figures were barred from running.
Despite his controversial rule, Kagame remains popular among many Rwandans, who credit him with rebuilding the nation after the 1994 genocide. However, his regime has been criticized for its autocratic nature, human rights abuses, and suppression of political opposition.
The election has been marked by “severe restrictions” on opposition candidates, according to Amnesty International, with threats, arbitrary detention, and prosecution commonplace. Kagame’s ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front has dominated the campaign, with its colors and slogans ubiquitous across the country.
Over 9 million Rwandans are registered to vote, with polls opening at 7:00 am and closing at 3:00 pm. Partial results are expected to be released as counting progresses. Kagame’s victory is all but certain, with many seeing the election as a mere formality.
