KIGALI, Rwanda – In a significant political development, the leadership of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda has publicly thanked state institutions for ensuring its activities are no longer disrupted, marking a notable shift from the widespread complaints of obstruction that characterized the recent presidential election campaign.
The party, which participated in the July 2024 presidential election, had frequently accused local administrative authorities of systematically sabotaging its campaign events. The tensions peaked in June, just weeks before the polls, when party officials reported being “rushed” and faced with organized counter-demonstrations in several districts.
The most prominent incident occurred in Ngoma District, where Green Party President, Senator Dr. Frank Habineza, publicly accused the district leadership of attempting to derail his campaign. Dr. Habineza alleged that local authorities blatantly disregarded Electoral Commission regulations by organizing activities for the ruling FPR-Inkotanyi coalition candidates and scheduling an impromptu meeting at the very venue his party was using.
“At that time, we saw a clear attempt to sideline our campaign and silence our message,” a party insider recalled, referencing the Ngoma event.
Similar challenges were reported in Ngororero District, where party members claimed that residents were mobilized to attend Green Party rallies while brandishing the signs and singing the songs of rival political parties, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and disruption.
However, the political climate appears to have improved in the election’s aftermath. The change in tone was formally expressed by the Green Party’s Commissioner General, Alexis Mugisha, following an internal party meeting.
Mugisha extended gratitude to the Government of Rwanda and various leaders within the national administration for what he described as a newfound respect for the party’s rights.
“I want to thank the relevant state institutions, the Government of Rwanda, and various leaders working in national administration responsibilities for taking time to understand the good values and programs that the Democratic Green Party has for Rwandans, and thus our rights are beginning to be respected,” Mugisha stated.
This appreciation signals a potential thaw in the often-fraught relationship between the opposition party and state organs. Observers note that while the Green Party secured a minority of votes in the presidential election, its continued operation and ability to conduct activities without hindrance are crucial for the development of a multi-party political landscape in Rwanda.
The party’s statement concludes with an expression of hope that this cooperative environment will be sustained, allowing them to freely present their policies and engage with citizens across the country without fear of interruption.
