KIGALI - The Rwandan Bar Association, yesterday, elected Athanase Rutabingwa as their president, replacing Vincent Karangwa, who was at the helm of the association for the last two years.

The Association is a legal fraternity of lawyers and judges dedicated to improving the administration of justice.
Speaking after the elections, Rutabingwa promised to work hand-in-hand with lawyers to champion the association’s cause.

"I will foster and maintain integrity, professionalism, civility and high standards of conduct by the Bar members,” he said.

Rutabingwa stressed that he will promote the unity and integrity of the members and also make the public understand the legal system and the role of lawyers and judges in society.

He also pledged to add more on what his predecessor had achieved by making the Bar known and recognised internationally.

"We call upon the public to always come to the association for legal assistance because we are there to assist them and work with the government to make sure there is respect for the rule of law in our country,” the new president expounded.

Vincent Karangwa, the outgoing Bar President, said he had finished his term of office and was happy for the new president.

"I achieved a lot during my term of office. For instance, our Bar is known in the region where some of us are members of the East Africa Lawyers Society,” he stated.

He noted that his successor will add more on what he achieved and promised to assist him if need be.

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