Rwanda gears up for elections as president concludes campaign

As Rwanda gears up for the presidential elections this Friday, the incumbent President, Paul Kagame, concluded his campaign trail in Gasabo district in Kigali. With more than six million Rwandans expected to vote, the country is buzzing with political fervor and anticipation. CNBC Africa's Arnold Segawa reported live from the ground, providing insights into the mood and activities leading up to the elections. Gasabo district holds significant historical value as the first settlement site of the early settlers in Rwanda. President Kagame chose this location to wrap up his campaign, symbolizing a connection to the nation's past and heritage. The President, who has traversed the country from east to west during his campaign, was greeted by a massive crowd of 500,000 people at the rally. The diverse composition of the audience, including men, women, and youth, reflects the broad support and interest in the upcoming election. One noteworthy campaign event involved a 'Walk for PK', where supporters walked 14 kilometers from the National Stadium to Gasabo district, showcasing their dedication and enthusiasm for President Kagame. The high turnout and energy displayed by the attendees underscore the strong backing the incumbent leader enjoys among the populace. The peaceful and orderly campaign period leading up to the elections has garnered praise from election observers. Despite the presence of some international observers, President Kagame questioned the necessity of their role, citing the lack of reciprocity in monitoring Western elections. Overall, the atmosphere in Rwanda remains calm and festive, with citizens engaging in celebratory activities and displaying confidence in the electoral process. Opposition candidates, including independent candidate Philip Baimanza and Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party, have faced challenges in gaining traction against the dominant presence of President Kagame's ruling party, the Rwanda Patriotic Front. With eight political parties participating in the elections, the overwhelming support for the incumbent underscores the party's enduring relevance and influence in Rwandan politics. As the nation prepares to head to the polls, all eyes are on the potential outcome of the elections. The overwhelming turnout at President Kagame's final campaign rally and the enthusiastic support from the electorate indicate a strong mandate for the incumbent leader. With a landslide victory anticipated, the focus now shifts to the post-election period and the implications for Rwanda's political landscape.