Kagame attacks critics

Monitor Correspondent
Kigali

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame was yesterday sworn-in for a second term in office. Addressing thousands of Rwandans and over a dozen African Heads of State, Mr Kagame lashed out at NGOs and human rights organisations that are critical of his government.

Mr Kagame said although Africa has many problems including lack of democracy, poverty and dependence, NGOs that are not accountable to anyone should not dictate the conduct of legitimate states. “It is difficult for us to comprehend those who want to give us lessons on inclusion, tolerance and human rights. We reject all their accusations. Self-proclaimed critics of Rwanda may say what they want, but they will neither dictate the direction we take as a nation, nor will they make a dent in our quest for self-determination,” Mr Kagame said.

“These external actors turn around and promote the dangerous ideas of those who have fallen out with the system; ignoring the choices of the majority of our people. It is evidence of hypocrisy and a patronising attitude towards our entire continent.”

President Kagame has fallen out with several of his former bush war colleagues, which has forced them into exile. His former chief of staff, Gen. Kayumba Nyamwasa, is exiled in South African following disagreements with Mr Kagame.

A recent attempt on his life has been blamed on the Rwandan government. Prior to his re-election Mr Kagame was criticised by rights groups and foreign media for allegedly being repressive and blocking credible opposition.

Human rights watchdog Amnesty International two weeks ago asked Rwanda to review its laws on the genocide ideology, saying they were being used as a guise to suppress political opposition and freedom of speech. Rwanda says the laws are necessary to prevent a repeat of the 1994 genocide in which over 1 million ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus were massacred.

A week ago a leaked UN Report accused the Rwandan army for allegedly committing crimes against humanity in the DRC. However, during the ceremony at Amahoro Stadium, President Kagame said despite doing what every credible government is expected to do, African governments are often accused of being corrupt and not responsive to the needs of their populations.

Mr Kagame was sworn-in for the second, seven-year term of office after he won the August 9 presidential elections with over 90 per cent. This would be his last term in office since Rwanda’s Constitution only allows for two presidential terms.