Hosted by the African Conflict Prevention Programmes in Nairobi.

On August 9, 2010, Rwanda will hold a presidential election. Following the devastating genocide, the progress Rwanda has made in the last 16 years, is remarkable. These elections will be taking place in a context of laudable economic growth, extensive land reform, massive resettlement of returning refugees and Rwanda joining the Anglophone bloc as members of the Commonwealth and the East African Community.

While the gains are impressive, Rwanda still faces challenges as it continues to rebuild and consolidate democracy. Concerns have been expressed over the reported incidences of grenade blasts, military reshuffle, arrests and suspension of two media publications.

This Seminar aims to discuss and analyse Rwanda’s pre-electoral climate looking at electoral preparations, the political situation, human security issues and scenarios for post-electoral Rwanda. Within this, it will aim to review political party strengthening efforts, the extent of good governance within public, civic and corporate domains as well as electoral issues in the run up to the elections. In so doing, it will seek to interrogate what the elections as a whole mean for open democracy in Rwanda and indeed beyond that, the region. The Seminar will conclude by offering some suggestions regarding Rwanda’s prospects for peaceful and credible elections as well as recommendations to contribute to this and, finally, some insights into the country’s post-electoral outlook.

Please note that discussions occur under ISS Rules. Participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed without his/her express permission.