NORTHYERN PROVINCE

GICUMBI — The Mayor of Gicumbi district, Bonane Nyangezi, has advised political party leaders in Gicumbi to stick to party rules.

"You should conduct your party activities in accordance with the Rwandan Constitution which requires all registered political parties to desist from rallying supporters on ethnicity, religion or regional basis,” said Nyangezi. He was addressing party representatives at district and Sector levels at the district hall on Wednesday.

The meeting brought together members of Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), Liberal Party (PL), Social Democratic Party (PSD), Party for Development and Justice (PPC) and Rwanda Democratic Union Party (UDPR).

The Mayor further advised the party representatives to liaise with the district and grass root authorities while organising their party meetings and rallies.

"You should seek written permission from the Sector or district authorities when intending to hold meetings with your followers, in order for the local authorities to guarantee your security,” added Nyangezi.

Pierre Celestin Byigero, the district official in charge of Civic Education, warned the members against campaigning before the official date set by the National Electoral Commission. Official campaigns begin on August 25.

"You should respect guidelines put forward by the Electoral Commission which requires all political parties to desist from carrying out secret campaigns and use of bribes to rally voters,” said Byigero. He advised them to respect gender equality while selecting office bearers in their political parties.

The members at the meeting promised to adhere to election guidelines and laws stipulated by the country’s constitution, in order to guarantee peaceful co-existence of all political parties and for the unity of Rwandans.

Ends