The National Electoral Commission (NEC) has cautioned university students against political manipulation ahead of the August 2010 presidential elections.

The call was made by NEC’s Kigali City representative, John Bosco Rutikanga, during a workshop that brought together over 300 student representatives from four universities and institutions of higher learning.

"Now that we are approaching the presidential elections, politicians are trying to manipulate you by all means,” Rutikanga told the students.

"As intellectuals, analyze their manifestations, resist diverting politics and above all, stand for the unity of Rwandans”.

Rutikanga eased the students’ worries of politicians who promote the Genocide ideology and denial, citing Victoire Ingabire’s recent provocative speech, saying the Electoral Commission is ready and has the capacity to handle such cases using existing laws.

The official also called upon students to embrace the notion of country ownership and get fully involved in election preparations by mobilizing local citizens to ensure a successful and peaceful election.

Dr. Nyabyenda Laurien, the coordinator of ARBEF who also coordinated the workshop also cautioned young participants against HIV/AIDS.

The workshop attracted participants from the National University of Rwanda (NUR), School of Finance and Banking (SFB), Kigali Institute of Education (KIE) and Independent University of Kigali (ULK).

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