Rwanda election: President Paul Kagame eyes third term

by dramelin widodo 9:30 PM 0 comments

From the section Rwandans are going to the polls in presidential elections, with incumbent Paul Kagame widely expected to win his third term in office.
The 59-year-old is being challenged by Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana.
Mr Kagame is credited with the country`s rapid economic development since taking office in 2000.
But critics accuse him of suppressing dissent and political freedoms.
Polls across the country open at 07:00 (05:00 GMT) and will close at 16:00.
Mr Kagame, who represents the ruling RPF party, has widespread vocal support, the BBC`s Tomi Oladipo says.
The president has even referred to the vote as a mere formality, our correspondent adds.
Rwanda`s constitution was amended in 2015, giving Mr Kagame a chance to stay in power until 2034.
The two challengers have complained that their supporter are being intimidated, which they say explains the low turnout at their pre-election rallies.
The candidates have also accused some local authorities of undermining their campaign.
The ruling party denies any accusations of wrongdoing.