Second session gets underway as 20 senators prepare to wrap up their term

Some of the senators, whose eight-year mandate comes to an end in October, shared their impressions of the First Senate, and whether or not they intend to remain active on the political scene after their senatorial terms. Francois Nshunguyinka, 75 (Member, Standing Committee on Political Affairs and Good Governance) I have faithfully served my country over the years, and I am happy that I am still playing a part. I feel I am still strong enough to continue being involved in any way possible, but I will leave that to the appointing authorities. However, at my age, I will not go out of my way to look for a job. Should there be no new official duties for me, I will straightaway head into retirement, and possibly continue to offer advice to fellow citizens who I will be meeting. Antoine Mugesera, 69 (Member, Standing Committee on Economic Development and Finance) Being a member of a political party (RPF) where I happen to serve as a commissioner, I will obviously not disappear from the political scene. Of course, I will happily take up any other appointment should there be one. While in the Senate, I learnt a lot; this is a job that puts you right in the centre of national agenda, and I am happy that I contributed towards so many policies that have since transformed our country. I am pleased that the Government implemented most of our recommendations. I enjoyed my stay in the First Senate, although I don’t think I will miss it. Eight years is not a short period; everything has an end. Chrysologue Kubwimana, 71 (Vice President, Standing Committee on Economic Development and Finance) At 71, I will certainly retire in October and possibly concentrate on the growth of my private businesses. I will, however, remain at the disposal of anyone who will seek advice from me on various issues. As the organ with a special responsibility of ensuring the application of the principles referred to in Article 9 of the Constitution, I am proud of the role the Senate played in the process to build a harmonious society. We successfully carried out our role of exercising government oversight yet we (the Senate) always worked in complementarity with the Executive for the good of the nation. Agnes Kayijire, 58 (Chairperson, Standing Committee on Social affairs, Human Rights and Public Petitions) My area of specialisation is private sector development. After my term, I will have to gauge the various opportunities that will come my way with an aim of continuing to play a part in national progress. For instance, I may decide to set up a consultancy firm that offers technical advice to SMEs. I am particularly contented with my contribution in the First Senate, especially in my capacity as the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Social affairs, Human Rights and Public Petitions, including advising the Executive on important national issues, which clearly made a difference. Ends