Eugène Mussolini is set to be the representative for persons with disabilities in the next Lower Chamber of Deputies after the National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced him as the provisional winner from Sunday’s poll. 

According to NEC, Mussolini garnered 482 votes, which accounts for 75.5 per cent of the total votes. The electoral college for persons with disabilities comprises of 668 voters and 96 per cent of them participated in the polls, NEC said.

Among those who lost include the outgoing MP Gaston Rusiha, who sought re-election. He came second with 14.5 per cent (93 votes).

Edouard Hitayezu was third with 26 votes, representing 4.08 per cent, followed by Jean-Bosco Karanganwa with 13 votes equivalent to 2 per cent.

The 41-year-old Mussolini, who has physical impairment, was the Coordinator of National Council of Persons with Disabilities in Gasabo District and a member of the district council.

The elections started at 10am. In some areas, voters had cast their ballots by midday, according to Prof Kalisa Mbanda, the NEC President.

Persons with disabilities have urged the new MP-elect to always bear in mind that persons with disability have unique challenges and ensure that all the laws and advocacy caters for them.

General elections are slated today with 11 political parties and four independents contesting for 53 seats.

On Tuesday, women and the youth will elect their representatives.

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