Today,Members of Parliament begin countrywide consultations to gather more views from the public about the proposed amendment to Article 101 of the Constitution. Both chambers of Parliament last week endorsed petitions from more than 3.7 million citizens seeking removal of any barrier to their wishes to have President Paul Kagame stand for another term in office after the expiry of the current term in 2017. The President has encouraged an open and free debate and said he is okay with whatever outcome provided it reflects the true will and aspirations of the people of Rwanda. For three weeks, the legislators will comb all the 416 sectors of the country to ensure the process is inclusive and representative of all the facets society. This is a historic exercise that demands full and genuine participation of Rwandans from all walks of life – from the ordinary farmer, street vendors and opinion leaders to the elite in the corridors of our top colleges and different professionals. The constitutional amendment consultations should be conducted in a manner that will truly inform the next course of action on the issue, which will go a long way in shaping the future and destiny of Rwanda. It is important that the consultations and discussions are conducted in a manner that allows free expression of the wishes of the people to allow for the best possible outcome. This is an opportunity for every Rwandan to come out and let their voice be heard on a very important issue that concerns both today’s and future generations.
