Campaigning for Rwanda’s presidential election on 15 July began today.
Nine million Rwandans have registered to vote in the election, which is being held in conjunction with parliamentary elections for the first time.
Incumbent President Kagame, who has ruled the country since 2000, is facing competition from Frank Habineza of the opposition Green Democratic Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpimana, a former journalist.
More than 500 candidates are contesting the parliamentary elections, and voters will elect 53 out of 80 members of parliament.
The remaining 27 seats are reserved for independent candidates: 24 women, two youth representatives and one person with a disability.