President Kagame made these remarks on the evening of Sunday, July 21, 2024, while hosting individuals who contributed to the successful conduct of his campaign activities. The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, was attended by various people, including RPF-Inkotanyi members, artists who supported the campaign, entrepreneurs, and other leaders.
In his speech, President Kagame expressed gratitude to all those who dedicated their efforts to ensure the campaign's success.
He said, "I want to thank you on behalf of the RPF, on behalf of Rwandans, and personally for how we worked together. Achieving 100%, or even 99% and beyond, reflects the efforts of our supporters and those from other political parties we collaborate with. I want to particularly thank them."
President Kagame expressed confidence that the work ahead, following the election victory, would proceed smoothly.
"Last time, I told you that the significant activity we've been engaged in for almost a month has gone smoothly. Now, the remaining tasks require even more effort than we've already exerted. But I have no doubt that we will succeed because of our determination, energy, and our resolve that Rwanda will never return to its dark past," he said.
This ceremony came after the National Electoral Commission announced provisional election results showing President Kagame winning with 99.18% of the votes, followed by Dr. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda with 0.50%, and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana with 0.32%.
President Kagame reminded those present that Rwanda's journey is one of rebuilding, aligned with its troubled history.
"As we build our country, we do so together, acknowledging the past that once devastated it but also recognizing the strength that emerged from that. This is our journey, knowing we are not insignificant, and ensuring everyone else recognizes that too," he stated.
He further noted that Rwanda's journey emphasizes friendship and cooperation with other nations. "Every country or individual has friends and enemies. With our combined efforts and those of our friends, the achievements are immeasurable. In RPF's culture, we never rest; we work well with those willing to cooperate, becoming reliable friends they can count on."
President Kagame mentioned that Rwanda even tries to engage its enemies for peaceful cooperation, but if they refuse, Rwanda will not falter in defending itself.
'For our friends, we are very good friends, you should rely on us. We won't disappoint our friends. For our adversaries, for those who don't wish us well, we will always extend a hand of cooperation. We will always show them that we can work together. But should they choose to keep us as enemies, Rwanda, Rwandans, RPF, we never take things for granted,' he stated.
'Our peace and security, we don't take it for granted. For our enemies, we will always try to show them that we can work together but should they choose to keep us as enemies, we will also make sure that we don't disappoint in fighting back. That is the spirit, the nature, the philosophy of RPF and which has become the Rwandan culture and philosophy,' added President Kagame.
Paul Kagame, 66, began leading Rwanda in March 2000 in a transitional capacity. He was first elected in 2003 during the country's first elections post the Genocide against the Tutsi.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-reaffirms-rwanda-s-commitment-to-friends-and-foes
