Seven political parties have thrown their support behind Paul Kagame for a fourth term in the upcoming presidential race in July. Among them are the long-standing Liberal Party (PL) and the Social Democratic Party (PSD), both considered as some of Rwanda’s oldest political entities.
PL and PSD, historically aligned with the ruling Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), have officially endorsed Kagame, adding to the four smaller parties already in coalition with RPF: Ideal Democratic Party (PDI), Democratic Union of the Rwandan People’s Party (UDPR), Prosperity and Solidarity Party (PSP), and Rwandan Socialist Party (PSR).
Notably, PL and PSD leaders have held various government positions, with PL’s president, Donatille Mukabalisa, serving as the Speaker of Parliament.
The decision to support Kagame stems from acknowledgment of his contributions to sectors like agriculture, education, health, and security, as expressed by Mr. Mukabalisa.
Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta, also the PSD president, highlighted Kagame’s receptiveness to ideas from diverse political parties, underscoring a collaborative approach in governance.
PL and PSD have each fielded presidential candidates four times in past elections, with Kagame overwhelmingly winning previous contests.
These endorsements reveal a political landscape where alliance and cooperation with the ruling party appear vital for smaller parties’ survival and influence. Critics argue that such alliances compromise the essence of opposition politics, advocating for robust opposition parties capable of providing effective checks and balances.
PSD’s manifesto for the upcoming elections includes proposals like extending military service for post-secondary students, reflecting their policy priorities.
Despite differing opinions, spokesperson Pie Nizeyimana emphasizes that these endorsements and alliances are exercises of democratic rights within Rwanda’s political framework.
