With only two days of election campaigns remaining, the opposition Democratic Green Party of Rwanda remains optimistic about securing significant votes in this year’s Presidential and Parliamentary elections, scheduled for July 15, 2024.
The Green Party’s presidential flag bearer, Dr. Frank Habineza, remains confident in a victory.Despite facing challenges such as access issues and setbacks in Ngoma and Rulindo districts,
During a press conference held on July 11 at the Olympic Hotel in Kimironko, Dr. Habineza addressed key issues and outlined his party’s plans, focusing on comprehensive and forward-thinking policy proposals aimed at enhancing Rwanda’s future.
A central theme of his address was regional integration and cooperation in East Africa. Dr. Habineza promised that if his party is elected to power, they will ensure that agreements signed with other countries are honored and implemented. He emphasized that too often these agreements are signed but not followed, and stressed the need for sanctions to ensure that any member failing to honor them faces consequences.
Outlining his party’s plans for the Rwandan diaspora, Dr. Habineza emphasized three key areas: financial accessibility, connection to home, and good relations. He pledged to keep the cost of international remittances low, making it easier for Rwandans abroad to support loved ones back in Rwanda. Additionally, he promised to streamline the process for obtaining necessary documents from Rwandan embassies, reducing bureaucracy and delays for Rwandans living abroad.
He also advocated for an inclusive approach to the government-run Rwanda Day celebrations, ensuring all Rwandans in the diaspora have the opportunity to freely participate and connect with their heritage.
Addressing tensions between Rwanda and neighboring countries, DR Congo and Burundi, Dr. Habineza noted that they had extensively discussed this issue during a visit to Rubavu district, as it significantly impacts the local community. He emphasized the need for dialogue and resolution of conflicts through bodies like the East African Community (EAC) and the United Nations (UN). He stressed that agreements signed should be honored and urged the UN to go beyond mere observation and take active measures.
“Despite numerous peace agreements signed by groups like M23, their impact has been limited. He called for the UN to impose sanctions on those who fail to honor these agreements, emphasizing that this is crucial for the safety and well-being of the people.” Dr. Habineza highlighted.
Regarding the issue of visas, Dr. Habineza commended the government’s initiative to offer visas on arrival to foreigners entering the country at the border, describing it as a very positive step. He suggested that other countries, especially within the African Union, should adopt similar measures.
He emphasized that since member states have signed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, it is essential to facilitate free travel across the continent.
