PM Makuza sworn-in as Kagame retains cabinet

KIGALI - President Paul Kagame, yesterday re-appointed former ministers to their portfolios, maintaining the entire cabinet line-up. Kagame had earlier on, indicated that he was not about to change a team that was still vibrant and delivering.He made the remarks at the Parliament, during the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister, Bernard Makuza, who was reappointed on Monday. The ceremony was attended by top government officials, lawmakers and diplomats. Kagame said that although the ceremony was about the swearing-in of a new Prime Minister, Makuza was not new to the position. The President pointed out that during his last mandate, a lot was accomplished, and added that there is still more to be done in the next seven years. He went on to say that he would like to have a nation of hardworking citizens who would fast track the country’s development. The Head of State thanked the leaders for their partnership and commitment. As Prime Minister, he will be in charge of coordinating cabinet activities in accordance with guidelines set by the President. He formulates the Government’s program in consultation with other members of Cabinet, assigns duties to Ministers and Ministers of State. Among his powers, he can also convene Cabinet meetings, draw up the agenda of the Cabinet in consultation with other members of the Cabinet and communicate it to the President. In the absence of the President, the Prime Minister presides over Cabinet meetings. The Prime Minister can also countersign laws enacted by Parliament and promulgated by the President, and also appoint civil and military officers with the exception of those appointed by the President. Among other things, he can sign orders in respect of the appointment and promotion of junior officers of Rwanda Defence Force and National Police. Makuza, 49, served as Rwanda’s Ambassador to Burundi and Germany, prior to becoming Prime Minister in 2000. Ends