KIGALI - AFTER successful Presidential elections that ended in a landslide victory for the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi), the party, Friday evening thanked all those who played a role in the campaigns.

The event held at Petit Stade in Remera was attended by the President-elect, Paul Kagame. It also brought together local leaders from provincial, district and sector levels from across the country.

Addressing the joyous crowd that packed the small stadium to full capacity, Kagame said that the electoral period showed the determination of the Rwandan people to make their country a better place, thanking those who sacrificed time and resources during the three weeks of the campaigning and voting process.

Kagame said that it took the energy and sacrifice from the population who worked together to ensure that the RPF and its candidates emerged victorious.

Mentioning all the 30 districts where massive RPF campaign rallies were held, Kagame said the energy, passion and love exhibited by the people, towards the party and its candidate, showed the whole world that Rwandans know what they wanted and know where the country is coming from and where it is heading.

He pointed out that the excitement and patriotism displayed, from one rally to the next, showed that Rwandans were determined to choose the path the country should take.

The Head of State reminded local leaders that at every rally, the RPF signed a pact with Rwandans which should be lived up to, hence challenging the local leadership to justify the trust shown by the population.

The President noted that whoever played an influential role in the electoral process, from religious leaders to opposition parties, the aim was to see the country progress in terms of development and democracy.

Amidst loud cheers, Kagame said that the energy and determination shown, should be converted into real actions that will transform the lives of all Rwandans and also accord them the dignity and respect they deserve.

He urged the local leaders to shun bad practices such as corruption, selfishness and dishonesty, adding that the achievements registered in the last seven years should form the basis for greater development in the next seven years.

The evening characterised by fanfare and dancing to RPF’s "Intsinzi” (Victory), was crowned by President Kagame joining the joyous crowd in dancing.

Local musicians Kitoko, Intore Massamba, Miss Shanel, Tuyisenge, Tom Close and King James, backed up by a live band, livened up the crowd. A group of Rwandan women from the Diaspora (Tanzania) clad in stylish Masaai garb, sang a Swahili song composed in honour of the RPF and Kagame.

Renowned traditional group Inganzo Ngali, also entertained the guests.

Ends