On Monday the swearing in ceremony marked yet another milestone in the history of Rwanda. Like the president said in his inaugural speech Rwandans made their choice, in the most emphatic and unequivocal manner, when they voted in the August 9 presidential polls by freely exercising their inalienable right to make decisions for themselves.

At Amahoro stadium there was a lot worth writing home about. The fact that we hosted more than a dozen Heads of state to witness history in the making was just enough to send a message to our critics.

However, there is a lot that President Kagame said, that was probably left out by the foreign press, but worth noting.  

For more than a decade and a half now, the people of Rwanda have increasingly come together as one, to determine and shape their destiny. The President noted that we have demonstrated our willingness to put national interest above all else, through a clear vote for unity, reconciliation and socioeconomic transformation.

The President pointed out that the country was able to support hundreds of thousands of widows and repatriated over three million refugees who were successfully reintegrated into society.

Over time and with progress made, we have redefined ourselves and are determined to forge ahead. It is against this background, that we can’t comprehend those who want to give us lessons on tolerance and human rights. We will determine our destiny.

Ends