Six districts in the country underwent significant leadership changes as new mayors were elected during by-elections held on December 7 to fill various vacant positions in local administrative entities, according to the Ministry of Local Government.
In Musanze District, Claudien Nsengimana secured the mayoral position, succeeding Janvier Ramuli as the district’s top executive leader.
Burera District witnessed Soline Mukamana elected as the new district mayor, replacing Marie-Chantal Uwanyirigira. Similarly, Vestine Mukandayisenga took over as the mayor of Gakenke District, succeeding Jean-Marie Vianney Nizeyimana.
The former mayors, Ramuli, Uwanyirigira, and Nizeyimana, were dismissed after their involvement in an event allegedly aimed at installing the so-called Abakono clan chief, an occurrence the government stated could threaten Rwandans’ unity through sectarianism.
Nyamasheke District also experienced a change in leadership, with Narcisse Mupenzi elected as its new mayor, succeeding the dismissed Appolonie Mukamasabo, who faced allegations of misconduct and failure to fulfill her duties.
Valentine Mukase emerged as the newly elected mayor in Karongi District, succeeding the suspended Vestine Mukarutesi, who was removed from the position on October 23 for failing to meet her responsibilities.
In Rubavu District, Prosper Mulindwa was voted in as the new mayor, succeeding Ildephonse Kambogo, who resigned during an extraordinary session of the district’s advisory council on May 5. Kambogo’s resignation was linked to the mismanagement of disaster response efforts in his area, according to the Ministry of Local Government.
Additionally, several districts appointed new vice mayors for finance and economic development, vice mayors for social affairs, and members of district councils. The changes reflect a significant shift in local leadership positions across the country.
