President Paul Kagame on Friday urged two newly sworn-in lawmakers to go beyond simply following the law and focus on resolving problems affecting citizens.
Kagame made the remarks after administering the oath of office to Senator Wellars Gasamagera and Member of Parliament Benjamin Niyonshuti, who joined Rwanda’s Parliament on Oct. 2.
He said lawmakers have responsibilities that extend beyond legislation, including oversight of government activities and other public institutions.
“Those responsibilities require knowledge, understanding and proper conduct. It is not only about complying with the law,” Kagame said.
He said Rwanda’s culture also expects leaders to do more than what is required by law when dealing with challenges facing the population.
“Those issues that can be addressed should be dealt with and put behind us, while the more complicated ones should continue to be worked on,” he said.
Kagame said leaders should use available resources to address problems and continue looking for additional resources when what is immediately available is insufficient.
The president said the swearing-in ceremony should also serve as a reminder to other public officials, as well as future leaders, of the responsibilities that come with public office.
“We wish you well in your work. Do everything possible to ensure that you fulfil the responsibilities entrusted to you,” he said.
Gasamagera was selected by the National Consultative Forum of Political Organisations to replace Donatille Mukabalisa, who died in July. Niyonshuti was elected to represent the youth after Venuste Icyitegetse resigned from the position in June for personal reasons.
Gasamagera previously served as a senator from 2003 to 2011. He has also served as Rwanda’s ambassador to Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe and as director general of the Rwanda Management Institute.
He was secretary general of the Rwandan Patriotic Front from 2023 until December 2025.
