President Paul Kagame on Friday, October 2, 2026, presided over the swearing-in of Senator Wellars Gasamagera and MP Ben Niyonshuti, who have taken up new positions in Rwanda’s Parliament.
Gasamagera was sworn in as a Senator representing the National Consultative Forum of Political Organizations, replacing Donatille Mukabalisa, who died recently.
Niyonshuti, meanwhile, was elected to represent the youth in the Chamber of Deputies, replacing Venuste Icyitegetse, who resigned from the position.
President Kagame urged the two lawmakers to fully embrace the responsibilities they have taken on, noting that while the duties of Parliament are significant, they remain part of the broader responsibility of serving the country and its people.
He said joining Parliament for the first time does not necessarily mean starting public service from scratch, as many lawmakers already have other responsibilities and experience serving the country.
Kagame also stressed that fulfilling their responsibilities requires more than simply following the law. He encouraged the new lawmakers to take action on issues that need to be addressed rather than simply observing them.
“What can be resolved should be addressed and cleared out of the way, while more difficult challenges should be given solutions through joint efforts,” he said.
The President wished Gasamagera and Niyonshuti success as they begin their new responsibilities and urged them to do their best to serve effectively.
