Rwanda will on September 2-3, 2018 elect members of Parliament. This time around, the elections competition is expected to be stiffer than the previous one.

In 2013, three political parties fronted candidates and this time five have submitted their nominations. The number of independent candidates has also increased.

The role of the Parliament cannot be understated. It has a duty to represent the people. For Rwandans to get the best out of Parliament, they have to elect competent representatives.

The Electoral Commission has released the provisional list with the final list slated to be announced next week. Once the list is out, voters should scrutinise the candidates and their political parties. Listen to what they have to offer and come Election Day, vote wisely.

This process should not be taken for granted and the media should play the role of linking the parties and candidates to the electorate.

The better the quality of candidates we vote into parliament, the better it is for the country. It is, therefore, the responsibility of voters to make sure the right people win the seats.

With close to 500 people competing for only 80 seats, voters must make sure those who make it have the best interests of the Rwandan people.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw