As Rwanda approaches its highly anticipated presidential and parliamentary elections, the country stands poised to demonstrate a remarkable level of preparedness and inclusivity. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) has left no stone unturned in ensuring that every Rwandan, whether at home or abroad, has the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights in this crucial electoral process.
Extensive Polling Stations Setup
The NEC has established an impressive network of 2,593 polling stations, with 2,433 located within Rwanda and 160 in various countries worldwide. This extensive setup aims to facilitate voting for Rwandans living abroad, ensuring their voices are heard in the presidential and parliamentary elections. Voting for Rwandans abroad will commence on July 14, while those within the country will cast their ballots from July 15 to 16.
Charles Munyaneza, the NEC Executive Secretary, confirmed on July 11 that elections in the diaspora will occur in 70 countries, overseen by 44 Rwandan diplomatic missions. Polling stations were established in locations with at least 50 registered voters, and Munyaneza assured that all polling stations abroad are fully prepared, with all necessary voting materials already in place.
Accredited Observers Ensure Transparency
Rwanda’s commitment to transparency and fairness in the electoral process is evident in the accreditation of over 1,000 local and foreign observers. As of June 11, NEC had accredited 776 observers from Rwanda and 334 from foreign countries. This process of accreditation will continue until Sunday, ensuring a robust monitoring mechanism is in place.
Local observers were primarily deployed by civil society organizations, while foreign observers represent esteemed regional and international organizations, including the African Union, European Union, East African Community (EAC), Commonwealth, International Organisation of the Francophonie, International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).
High Voter Turnout Expected
With over nine million Rwandans registered to vote in the 2024 elections, including two million first-time voters, a high voter turnout is anticipated. The campaign period will conclude on Saturday, July 13, paving the way for the election days. Rwandans in the diaspora will vote on July 14, while polls within the country will open on July 15.
Diverse Candidates and Comprehensive Voting Process
This election sees three presidential candidates: Paul Kagame of the RPF-Inkotanyi, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana. Additionally, 589 candidates are vying for 80 seats in the Chamber of Deputies. On July 16, representatives of special groups, including women, youth, and people with disabilities, will be elected by electoral colleges.
Polling stations will open at 7 AM and close at 3 PM, with vote counting commencing immediately after. Partial results of the presidential election are expected to be announced on Monday night, with provisional results on July 20 and final results on July 27.
Public Holidays to Facilitate Voting
In a bid to encourage maximum participation, the Ministry of Labour has declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays. This move allows Rwandans to participate in the elections without any work-related constraints. While Monday will see the general elections, Tuesday will be dedicated to parliamentary elections for special interest groups.
Final Preparations and Readiness
According to Charles Munyaneza, final preparations at polling centers are underway, including setting up the centers, improving road access, and installing electricity where needed. This comprehensive approach underscores Rwanda’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process.
As Rwanda prepares to head to the polls, the meticulous planning and inclusivity efforts by the NEC highlight the country’s dedication to democratic principles and the active participation of its citizens. The upcoming elections promise to be a significant milestone in Rwanda’s democratic journey, reflecting the collective will of its people.
