Rwanda has known no leader other than Paul Kagame since the end of the 1994 genocide. His rise to power, his long tenure, and his continued influence have made him a central figure in Rwanda’s modern history, but also a highly controversial one.

Paul Kagame led the Uganda-based Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), which defeated the authorities who orchestrated the mass killing of Tutsis and moderate Hutus during the 1994 genocide. This pivotal role in ending the genocide and the subsequent civil war positioned him as a key figure in Rwanda’s reconstruction.

In the immediate aftermath, Pasteur Bizimungu became president with Kagame serving as both vice president and defense minister. However, by 2000, Kagame had taken over as president, a role he has held ever since. His leadership has been characterized by both praise for stability and development, and criticism for authoritarianism and human rights abuses.

2024 Election and Extended Rule

In 2024, Kagame secured over 99.1% of the vote, extending his grip on power by another five years. This result, while unsurprising given the lack of real opposition, underscores the extent of his control over the Rwandan political landscape. Years earlier, Kagame had set the stage for his prolonged rule by scrapping presidential term limits, ensuring he could potentially lead until 2034.

Despite occasional signals that he might step down, Kagame defended his hold on power shortly before the July 15 vote, stating that the ruling party and Rwandans themselves had urged him to continue. This sentiment was echoed by many, including Kigali resident Rachid Bugirimfura and journalist Charles Ndushabandi, who credit Kagame with significant achievements in stopping the genocide, fostering national unity, and enhancing security and infrastructure.

Under Kagame, Rwanda has experienced notable economic growth and has gained international recognition for its progress. The World Bank reports that Rwanda’s economy remained resilient and adaptable despite internal and external challenges, achieving a 7.6% growth rate in the first three quarters of 2023. Gross domestic product (GDP) growth is expected to soar between 2024 and 2026.

Government spokeswoman Yolande Makolo proudly highlighted Rwanda’s achievements under Kagame, emphasizing improvements in security, the repatriation of refugees, national unity, justice, and overall progress. However, not everyone is impressed with Kagame’s much-lauded modern Rwanda. Victoire Ingabire, a prominent opposition figure, acknowledges the visible development in Kigali but argues that true development extends beyond infrastructure. She points out the lack of basic necessities such as roads, electricity, water, and hospitals outside the capital.

A recent assessment by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) revealed that 56.5% of the Rwandan population lives on less than $1.90 a day, with poverty reduction stagnating since 2014. The FCDO also highlighted higher levels of malnutrition, lower levels of human capital development, and lower resilience at both individual and systemic levels.

A ‘Benevolent Dictator’?

Kagame is often described as a “benevolent dictator,” focusing heavily on Rwanda’s image and rapid development. Some credit him with significant strides in gender equality, noting efforts to promote gender equity and empower women. Yet, critics argue that this image is maintained at the cost of political freedom and genuine democracy.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) describes Rwanda’s political space as closed, with opposition parties facing administrative obstacles and political pressure. HRW also notes that over a dozen opposition politicians are imprisoned, often on dubious charges. Victoire Ingabire herself spent eight years in prison for criticizing government policies.

Despite these criticisms, government officials insist that Kagame’s leadership is lawful and benevolent. Yolande Makolo, the government spokeswoman, refutes allegations of political assassinations and emphasizes Rwanda’s commitment to the rule of law and the value of life, a lesson learned from the genocide.

While Kagame’s supporters point to his successes, some citizens are not afraid to voice their demands for more substantial economic improvement. Rachid Bugirimfura calls for building human capacity to enhance individual economic situations, rather than relying solely on national development metrics.

Kagame’s tenure has also seen strained relations with neighboring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels. Kagame has consistently denied these allegations, but the tension remains a significant issue.

As Kagame continues to lead Rwanda, the debate over his legacy persists. Supporters laud his contributions to national unity, security, and economic development. Critics, however, highlight the persistent poverty, lack of political freedom, and human rights abuses.

Paul Kagame’s rule in Rwanda is a complex tapestry of triumphs and controversies. His pivotal role in ending the 1994 genocide and subsequent leadership have undeniably shaped modern Rwanda. However, his authoritarian methods and the enduring socio-economic challenges cast a long shadow over his legacy. As Rwanda moves forward, the questions of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development remain crucial to its future.