Rwanda's Opposition Leader Frank Habineza Concedes Defeat: "I Deeply Appreciate"

 

Opposition leader in Rwanda Frank Habineza,

Frank Habineza, the opposition leader in Rwanda, has gracefully conceded defeat and expressed gratitude to the voters who supported him during the Monday, July 15 election. Rwanda's Opposition Leader Frank Habineza during campaigns in Burera district.  Who defeated Habineza in the Rwandan elections? Incumbent President Paul Kagame secured a landslide victory with 99% of the total votes, amounting to over seven million ballots.  Habineza garnered over 38,301 votes, placing him a distant second, followed closely by Phillipe Mpayimana with 22,753 votes, according to preliminary reports. "Dear Rwandans, I deeply appreciate all those who voted for me as president and for voting for the ⁦Democratic Green Party in the Rwandan Parliament. We will continue to strive for the betterment of our country and participatory democracy," he said. He also vied for the presidency in 2017 but lost to Kagame. The National Electoral Commission has indicated that the final election results will be officially announced no later than July 27, with 21.06% of the ballots yet to be counted. Rwandans congratulate Frank Habineza Following his concession, Frank Habineza has received praise from sections of Rwandans who have lauded his sportsmanship and encouraged him to continue contributing his ideas for the benefit of the country. His decision not to contest the election process has also been commended by many. @MUTUYIMANAEmma8 said: "You're the next president! Don't give up for next and I'm ready to vote for you again till you make it."  @Ba_Habimana noted: "So good appreciation. You had good plans. Working and building our country is not about being President. The light is still green for you to give suggestions from an acute angle where you are seated. Once again good and constructive plans. We shall miss you." @UncleGobby commented: "Dear Dr. Frank, I would like to express my admiration for your unwavering commitment to participating in the presidential elections in Rwanda. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed and are deeply appreciated." @JoshuaKazamwali advised: "I want to appreciate your courage and discipline during this election period. Competing for what you need is different from rebellion against the state and rushing into exile, I can say this is a nice try and you're more than a dissident in exile. Keep working with our country." @n_cayman confessed: "I didn't vote for you because PK is irreplaceable, but always appreciate the new ideas you bring to the table. As a financial person, I always look at where the money will come from. Wherever possible, your ideas should be implemented as long as the national budget allows for them."  @micomyizajohn observed: "Congratulations. Your score has improved compared to the results of the 2017 presidential election." 

by  Nancy Odindo