Rwanda’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) began accepting applications for presidential and parliamentary candidates for the upcoming elections on July 14-15. Incumbent President Paul Kagame, representing the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) Inkotanyi, was the first to submit his candidacy.
Accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, Kagame presented his application at NEC headquarters. NEC Chairperson Oda Gasinzigwa confirmed the completeness of his file. RPF Secretary General Wellars Gasamagera stated that the submission marks a significant milestone for the party and the country. He emphasized the importance of preparing for the campaign and promoting the RPF manifesto.
Kagame was chosen as the RPF candidate on March 9, 2024, receiving 99.1% of votes against Sheik Abdul Karim Harerimana. Several allied political parties, including PSD, PL, PDI, PPC, PSP, PSR, and UDPR, have pledged their support for Kagame.
First elected as interim president in 2000, Kagame has held office through several election cycles. In 2015, citizens requested a constitutional amendment to allow him to run again in 2017, which led to a referendum approving the change. Consequently, Kagame was re-elected in 2017 with 98.7% of the vote.
NEC announced that eight prospective candidates have expressed interest in running for the presidency. The commission outlined the electoral calendar, noting that applications will be accepted from May 17 to May 30. A provisional list of candidates will be released on June 14, with the final list on June 22. Campaigns are set to run from June 22 to July 13.
The presidential election will coincide with the elections for the lower chamber of parliament. On July 14, Rwandans abroad will vote, followed by domestic voters on July 15. The elections will also include the selection of representatives for women, youth, and people with disabilities.
 began accepting applications for presidential and parliamentary candidates for the upcoming elections on July 14-15. Incumbent President Paul Kagame, representing the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) Inkotanyi, was the first to submit his candidacy.){kind=link}