Voting is underway in the East-Central African state of Rwanda in an elections many experts believe will be an endorsement of incumbent president who is seeking a third-term after winning previous election with over 90% of the votes.

Polls opened at 7am and will close at 3pm local time. In all over 6million eligible voters will select from among three candidates vying for the presidency - Incumbent Paul Kagame, Philippe Mpayimana (Independent Candidate) and Frank Habineza (Democratic Green Party of Rwanda (DPGR). The main trending issues during the campaign period focused on human and civil rights from the opposition candidates, whereas the incumbent campaigned on improving the economy.

There are 2,340 polling centres and 16,691 polling stations opened across the country which is aimed it minimising long queues during the elections. The voting process started yesterday with about 40,000 Rwanda nationals in the Diaspora in 33 countries.

The Electoral Commision stated in a recent press conference that about up to 70% of preliminary results will be released before midnight after voting.

Rwanda's constitution was amended in 2015, giving Mr Kagame a chance to stay in power until 2034. If he wins this elections he will lead the country for the next 7years.

AEP
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