Tragedy struck at an election rally for Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, resulting in one fatality and numerous injuries, according to officials.
Following the stampede that occurred on Sunday, the Ministry of Local Government, Marie-Solange Kayisire, emphasized the importance of adhering to instructions provided by campaign organizers to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
In response to the incident, President Kagame’s RPF-Inkotanyi party expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the family of the deceased individual. The party pledged to closely monitor and support those injured during the unfortunate event, as stated in a social media post.
Campaign activities for the upcoming general election in July commenced over the weekend, with President Kagame holding rallies in northern Rwanda. The stampede occurred in Rubavu district on Sunday, resulting in 37 injuries, with four individuals requiring hospitalization for serious injuries, as reported by the Ministry of Local Government.
President Kagame, seeking a fourth term in office, has been a prominent figure in Rwandan politics since 1994. Despite facing criticism for his handling of opposition groups, he has defended Rwanda’s human rights record, emphasizing the country’s commitment to political freedoms.
In the upcoming election, President Kagame will compete against Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana. Notably, Diane Rwigara, a vocal critic of President Kagame, was disqualified from running in the election for alleged failure to meet eligibility criteria.
Rwandan citizens are set to cast their votes on 15 July to elect the next president and lawmakers, as the government takes steps to prevent similar incidents during campaign events.
