Rwanda heads to polls

Voting in Rwanda is currently underway to elect the country's next president, with 66-year-old incumbent Paul Kagame expected to cruise to victory. Kagame, who has ruled the central African country since 2000, has consistently won more than 93 percent of the vote in each of the three previous elections. The other candidates vying for the presidency in this election include Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, both of whom challenged Kagame in the last poll in 2017. CNBC Africa Senior Anchor, Aby Agina, is on the ground for real-time updates. Two of the presidential candidates have already cast their votes, and many prominent business leaders in Rwanda have also participated in the voting process. The election is closely watched, with a strong indication that President Paul Kagame will secure another term in office. If re-elected, this will be his fourth term, given his track record and popularity. The other candidates, Habineza and Mpayimana, are closely monitored for the number of votes they can garner. Rwanda's election is held against a backdrop of massive development efforts, with the country actively seeking investments to diversify its economy. The voting is scheduled to close at 5 p.m., and all eyes are on when President Kagame will cast his vote. The voter turnout plays a crucial role in any election. Rwanda has witnessed a substantial number of voters at polling stations nationwide. Additionally, Rwandans living outside the country, including the diaspora, have participated in the voting process. While the exact turnout is yet to be confirmed, early estimations suggest a significant level of participation. Notably, a higher number of young people have actively engaged in this election, reflecting a potentially decisive moment in the country's electoral history. With a population exceeding 14 million and a registered voter base of around 9 million, projecting over 50% turnout showcases commendable civic engagement, especially on a public holiday. Apart from the economy, voters in Rwanda are also keen on other crucial issues while choosing their next leader. The importance of peace and stability resonates strongly among voters, particularly given regional conflicts and concerns about militia activities near the eastern borders. The electorate, especially from the western and border regions, prioritizes tackling security challenges. President Kagame's leadership style, including media freedoms and rights activism, is also under scrutiny. The President has emphasized openness to media coverage that reflects objective reporting, with various international media outlets covering the election without reported hindrances. However, ongoing dialogue and action to address concerns raised by the media are necessary. Additionally, voters are focused on economic growth and job creation. Despite Rwanda's impressive 7 percent economic growth rate, the unemployment rate, currently at 15 percent, remains a significant concern, particularly among the youth. The election outcomes are anticipated towards the end of the week, with updates expected to continue as the week unfolds. Senior Anchor Abi will provide real-time coverage and analysis of the evolving political landscape in Rwanda.