KIGALI, (Reuters) – Rwandan President Paul Kagame announced yesterday his intention to seek a third term in 2017, confirming a decision that was widely expected following the approval of constitutional changes that could allow him to stay in office for years to come.
“You requested me to lead the country again after 2017. Given the importance and consideration you attach to this, I can only accept,” Kagame said in a televised address to the nation.
“But I don’t think that what we need is an eternal leader,” he said
Kagame has been president since 2000 but he has effectively been in control since his rebel force marched into Kigali to end the 1994 genocide.
He was originally limited to two terms, but in 2015 Rwanda approved changes to the constitution that would effectively allow Kagame to stay in power until 2034, if he wins elections.
Kagame has insisted for months he had yet to make up his mind about whether to run in the 2017 election.
A voter referendum on the change, which drew the backing of 98 percent of those casting ballots, prompted criticism from Western powers who worry about the growing list of African leaders who have been seeking to extend their time in office.
Neighbouring Burundi was plunged into chaos in April when President Pierre Nkurunziza’s announcement he would seek a third term sparked months of street protests and violence that has left at least 400 people dead. He later won in a disputed vote.
