As Rwanda nears the upcoming elections, understanding the regulations governing campaign activities is crucial for both candidates and voters alike. The electoral framework outlines clear guidelines to ensure fair, transparent, and orderly conduct during the campaign period. Here’s a closer look at the dos and don’ts that candidates and voters must adhere to. Don’ts Campaigning activities or campaign posts are not allowed in clinics, schools, temples, courts of law, or public markets. Moise Bukasa, the National Electoral Commission (NEC) Communication Officer, told The New Times that these areas are prohibited because they naturally gather large crowds without any effort from a candidate. ALSO READ: Political parties forum gears up for July elections Regulations governing the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, according to NEC, prohibited campaign activities include: Misusing public resources Engaging in bribery or accepting bribes Disrupting public peace, unity, or security Discriminatory practices Insulting or defaming other candidates Other illegal activities: Campaigning outside the stipulated election laws and regulations Damaging or defacing other candidates’ advertisements Campaigning without notifying authorities as required Encouraging actions that disrupt election processes Using national logos on campaign materials Misusing another candidate’s credentials Utilizing public institutions or company social media platforms for campaign purposes Urging individuals to behave in ways that could disturb the election process If any questions arise regarding campaign activities, a candidate may submit the issue to the commission. If the issue is not resolved at the commission level, the interested party may approach the competent court. Dos For indirect elections (where representatives cast votes on behalf of eligible voters), independent candidates, political groups, or associations of political groups that have submitted candidates must submit in writing to NEC their campaign activity plans, and assign a copy to the district administration where these activities will take place, no later than June 18. ALSO READ: Rwanda civil society deploys over 300 observers for July elections In direct elections (where voters personally cast their votes), the commission informs the candidates and the electoral council of the campaign activity programme, no later than June 16. However, the candidate has the right to prepare their own campaign plan in front of the electorate. A candidate who wishes to campaign before the electoral council based on their own plan must inform the district administration in writing and assign a copy to the election coordinator at the district level, at least one day before the day they will campaign. For independent presidential and parliamentary candidate campaigns, individuals promote themselves or are promoted by another person authorised by them. Candidates nominated by political parties shall campaign in accordance with the procedure established by that political party or forum of political parties. A political party that submits a list of deputy candidates can also advertise their support for a presidential candidate from another party or an independent candidate that they support. ALSO READ: Social media engagement gains momentum ahead of elections Only people registered on the electoral roll are authorised to advertise a candidate. Independent candidates or political parties must submit a list of campaign promoters to NEC and the district administration. The person promoting a candidate must carry an original authorisation certificate issued by an independent candidate, a political party, or an association of political parties. Advertisements can be posted on government buildings determined by the district or sector administration, embassies, consulates, private buildings, vehicles, and other personal properties, with appropriate permissions. Candidates must comply with district or sector regulations when posting advertisements.
