NEC confirms three candidates for Rwanda’s august presidential elections, turns down three others

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As August draws near, increased activities have been noticed in Rwanda in preparation for the mich anticipated presidential election. It is reported that three candidates have finally been published to qualify to contest for the position, after having passed necessary requirements.

The New Times News Website listed the candidates as follows: “Kagame, Habineza and Mpayimana”. As reported, the list was announced by the NEC Chairperson, Prof Kalisa Mbanda, who yesterday, 7th of July, made the public declaration.

The reported according to Athan Tashobya, who filed in the report, stated that the NEC Chairperson listed the incumbent President, Paul Kagame, a candidate of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi); Frank Habineza, of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda; and Philippe Mpayima, independent candidate.

However, Prof Mbanda, according to the report disclosed that “three other independent candidates; Diane Nshyimyimana Rwigara, Fred Sekikubo Barafinda and Gilbert Mwenedata, had failed to meet the nomination requirements to contest in the August poll.” Explaining that “According to Rwanda’s electoral code, independent presidential aspirants are required to present 600 signatures with at least 12 from each of the 30 districts of the country, proof of citizenship, birth certificate, among others.”

It was revealed that Mwenedata, on his part was able to “present 522 signatures, failing to get recommendations from Burera District and with a dead signatory in his list.”

As for Rwigara, he polled a higher number of signatories with his 572 signatures  but with a number of them dead, too.

Coming with the least numbers of signatories is Barafinda who managed to gather just 362 signatures.

The stage is therefore set as “Campaigns are expected to start next Friday, July 14, and elections on August 3 for Rwandans in the Diaspora and August 4 in the country.”

 

 

 

 

 

Correspondent: Olayiwola A. Ridwan

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