Rwanda’s Democracy in Trouble

Written by Jose Miguel Lopez | September 24, 2023

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On Tuesday, Rwanda’s president Paul Kagame announced in an interview with Jeunea Afrique that he plans to run for another term in 2024. Despite exceeding the constitutional term limits, an amendment passed in 2015 will allow him to run for two additional five-year terms. This would extend his time in power until 2034, adding to recent trends from African leaders changing their constitutions to retain control. Western countries heavily criticized this amendment, especially the United States, asking him to “step down and allow a new generation of leaders to emerge.”

Paul Kagame was first elected in 2000, winning reelections in 2003, 2010, and 2017. He won the last election with 98.63% of the vote. According to Kagame, the results speak for themselves as they demonstrate the people’s happiness and confidence in him. Kagame became a prominent figure in the international arena due to his ability to steer the country towards economic development and improvement of public health after the 1994 genocide that ravaged the country. His popularity and achievements have given him confidence, as shown in his statements where he declares, “what the West thinks is not my problem” and “people are supposed to be independent and should be allowed to organize themselves as they wish.” These statements indicate that Kagame intends to remain in power and will most likely succeed as it is believed he controls the majority of party leaders.

Various humanitarian organizations and U.S. watchdog Freedom House have criticized Kagame’s regime, accusing him of repressing political opponents and independent media. The accusations have been denied by the government. However, Reporters Without Borders Freedom Index positions Rwanda 131st out of 180 countries in their latest report. Clearly, Rwandan democratic institutions are showing signs of trouble, which will intensify next year. This is a critical situation to observe as it further develops.