House Speaker praises Kagame’s mandate

The Speaker of Parliament, Rose Mukantabana, has said that President Paul Kagame effectively executed his duties in the past seven year and stated that he deserves to be re-elected. She made the remarks while concluding the second term of parliament that ended yesterday, effectively granting the lawmakers a month’s holiday. “I have been reading President Paul Kagame’s report for his 2003-2010 mandate that was forwarded to us; I realised that he successfully delivered on his manifesto that he had listed in the four pillars of good governance, empowering the judiciary, economic growth and social welfare of the citizens.” “As members of parliament we should be proud that the man Rwandans put in power has delivered which has ensured development of our country,” she said. The Speaker also called upon MPs to play a leading role in ensuring that Presidential campaigns and elections are conducted in a free and fair environment. “Elections are some of the yardsticks of democracy and nationals have the final say on who they want to lead this nation.” She added that; “I have been keenly following all MPs on how they are conducting themselves during this campaign period, and so far no one has disappointed me. I am happy that the political parties competing are also doing well in terms of keeping in the confines of the law.” “You should maintain this spirit and give no chance to those critics that look at every form of development in a negative way. Elections were prepared in a transparent manner and will no doubt be a success. I believe all Rwandans will accept the results of the polls.” Meanwhile, in her address to the Parliament, Mukantabana said that ending the term is a moment of celebrating the success made by MPs and looking for better ways of how the Parliament can do better. “My assessment indicates that we performed to the expectation and we should all be happy for our success. I have no doubt our performance will continue to improve,” she said. The second term that began on June 7, this year saw a number of bills passed among them; the 2010/11 budget, bills establishing state agencies as well as a number of draft laws related to taxation. Ends

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House Speaker praises Kagame’s mandate