NYAGATARE - Representatives from the National Electoral Commission (NEC) in the Eastern Province expelled at least 10 electoral officials in Rukomo and Rwimiyanga sectors of Nyagatare district, for attempting to rig the elections.

The NEC Coordinator, Frank Kayiranga, said that it was through vigilance that the suspects were caught

"There is no short cut; we cannot allow anybody to disrupt our elections. Everything went smoothly despite such isolated cases...they were immediately checked,” he said.

Kayiranaga disclosed that Executive Secretaries of Gishari and Muhazi sectors in Rwamagana district were caught interfering with the commission’s work, something they were cautioned against.

 "It is regrettable that Executive Secretaries tried to influence election results. Their immediate employer will take action against them...the law is clear with stipulated punishments,” he added.

Zainabu Kayitesi, a polling officer in Kigabiro, Rwamagana District, told The New Times that the elections were characterized by stiff competition, prompting some candidates and their supporters to try rigging.

"That some candidates and their sympathizers attempted rigging was a sign of stiff competition. No one can rig, such people only expose their character of political bankruptcy,” she said.

Fidele Iyamuremye, a resident of Gahini Sector in Kayonza District, said the electorate was mobilized to ensure free, fair and credible elections.

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