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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
b . No, existing regional/provincial/other boundaries are used
Comments: The electoral constituency for the election of the members of the Chamber of Deputies under the political organisations or coalition of political organisations or those standing as independent candidates extends to the entire country. Twenty-four (24) women are elected according to national administrative entities. A Presidential Order shall determine the number of persons to be elected and the electoral constituency.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections, art. 87, 104: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2018/11/01
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
i . No information available
Comments: The electoral constituency of the members of the Chamber of Deputies from the political organisations or from a coalition of political organisations and the independent candidates from which they are elected is the whole country. Twenty-four (24) women are elected according to national administrative entities. A Presidential Order shall determine the number of persons to be elected and the electoral constituency.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections, art. 87, 104: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2018/11/01
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The National Electoral Commission
Source: Loi n°31/2005 du 24/12/2005 portant organisation et fonctionnement de la Commission Nationale Electorale (2005), art. 5(2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2018/11/01
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
b . Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The President is the Head of State. The election of the President of the Republic shall be by universal suffrage through a direct and secret ballot with a simple majority of the votes cast. The President of the Republic is elected for a term of five years renewable only once. This follows the constitutional amendment of 2023 that shortened presidential terms of office to two five year terms. The revised Constitution, Article 175, also provided for the harmonization of the presidential and legislative elections starting from the 2024 election.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 80: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/constitution-of-the-republic-of-rwanda-last/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The Prime Minister shall be nominated, appointed and removed from office by the President of the Republic.
Source: Constitution (2023), Art. 116 : https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/constitution-of-the-republic-of-rwanda-last/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2023), Art. 97 - 115: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/constitution-of-the-republic-of-rwanda-last/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: Legislative power is vested in a Parliament consisting of two chambers: the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
Source: Constitution (2023), Art. 64 : https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/constitution-of-the-republic-of-rwanda-last/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
g . List Proportional Representation j . Other
Comments: Members of the Chamber of Deputies shall be elected by direct universal suffrage
through a secret ballot from a final list of names using the system of proportional representation.
Source: Source : Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 75: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2024/12/04
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: July 2013
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections d . Referendums
Comments: The Electoral Law determines the modalities on how local, legislative and Presidential elections and referenda shall be conducted.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 1: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Voting is an obligation to every Rwandan who fulfills the requirements.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 47: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: Any petition relating to presidential and legislative election may be filed with the Supreme Court in forty eight (48) working hours following the announcement of provisional results by the National Electoral Commission Chairperson.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 71: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
e . Other
Comments: Any individual
Source: Rwanda laws governing elections Chapter 1 article 73. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: In case of dispute, the Supreme Court shall settle with regards to the final results of the election.
Source: Rwanda laws governing elections Chapter 1 article 73. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body
Comments:
Source: Rwanda laws governing elections. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Regional level c . Local level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: d) Referenda
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/;
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 3: http://www.comelena.gov.rw/IMG/pdf/Gazette_Imikorere_KIA.pdf (2012);
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/constitution-of-the-republic-of-rwanda-last/view (2023);
Organic law N° 03/2010/OL of 18/06/2010 governing presidential and parliamentary elections, art. 3: http://www.amategeko.net/display_rubrique.php?ActDo=all&Information_ID=1449&Parent_ID=30694900&type=public&Langue_ID=An&rubID=30694901 (2013)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
a . The President
Comments: The President of the Republic
Source: LAW N° 31/2005 OF 24/12/2005 RELATING TO THE ORGANISATION AND FUNCTIONING OF THE NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: The Executive Secretariat of the National Electoral Commission prepares its budget. The recurrent budget reserved for the daily activities of the Commission and the special budget which is also used during elections are included in the State Budget. The State also has an obligation to solicit support for the Commission in order to effectively fulfill its responsibilities.
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/ (2024);
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 19, 29: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: The National Electoral Commission is independent.
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/ (2024);
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 3: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017);
Constitution, art. 180: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Rwanda_2015?lang=en (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: Three years.
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/(2024);
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 7: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/ (2024));
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 3: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017);
Constitution, art. 180: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/constitution-of-the-republic-of-rwanda-last/view (2023)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The National Electoral Commission is composed of 7 members, of which at least 30% should be women.
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: http://www.comelena.gov.rw/-About-NEC- (2012);
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 7: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: Commissioners should be Rwandan citizens, hold at least a bachelor' s degree from a University or from state recognised higher learning institutions and be persons of integrity. In addition, at least 2 of the electoral commissioners are required to be lawyers.
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/ (2024);
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 7, 11: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State e . Legislature i . Other
Comments: The Government shall present to the Senate for approval seven (7) Commissioners including the President and the Vice President. The Commissioners are appointed and removed from office by Presidential order.
Source: Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://nec.gov.rw/amatora/en/home/ (2024));
Law N° 31/2005 of 24/12/2005 relating to the organisation and functioning of the National Electoral Commission, Art. 8: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-law-nb0-31-2005-of-24-12-2005-relating-to/view (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: a) The National Electoral Commission
Source: Loi n°31/2005 du 24/12/2005 portant organisation et fonctionnement de la Commission Nationale Electorale (2005), art. 5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2024/12/04
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Loi n°31/2005 du 24/12/2005 portant organisation et fonctionnement de la Commission Nationale Electorale (2005), art. 5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-loi-nb031-2005-du-24-12-2005-portant/
Verified: 2018/11/02
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body h . Yes, conducted by NGOs/ Civic Organizations i . Yes, conducted by Political Parties/ Candidates j . Yes, conducted by the Media
Comments:
Source: National Electoral Commission Strategic plan (2012-2017), p. 4 (section 2.2.2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-national-electoral-commission-strategic/
Verified: 2018/11/02
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement e . Public meetings g . Internet
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2024/12/04
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement e . Public meetings g . Internet h . Handouts (printed material)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2024/12/04
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
a . Disabled b . Young people/ first time voters c . Women
Comments: The law provides for reserved quotas through which special electoral colleges for women, youth, and PWDs vote for their representatives to enhance inclusive political participation.
Source: REGULATIONS NO 03/2018 OF 09/07/2018 OF THE NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION GOVERNING 2018 PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS; Article 103,
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/regulations-no-03-2018-of-09-07-2018-of-the/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: Persons allowed to register on the voters’ register of a a village or of the embassy are all Rwandans of at least eighteen (18) years of age or those who will have attained it on the election day and who reside or temporarily stay in that village or in countries located in the territorial jurisdiction of that embassy.
Source: Rwanda electoral code Chapter 1 Article 2. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: Persons allowed to register on the voters’ register of a a village or of the embassy are all Rwandans of at least eighteen (18) years of age or those who will have attained it on the election day and who reside or temporarily stay in that village or in countries located in the territorial jurisdiction of that embassy.
Source: Law governing elections in Rwanda Chapter 1 article 10. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration
Comments: Persons prohibited from registering on the voters' register are:
1) a person who is deprived of his/her right to vote by competent courts of law and has not been
rehabilitated or has not been granted amnesty in accordance with the law;
2) a person definitively sentenced for homicide or manslaughter;
3) a person definitively convicted of the crime of genocide or crimes against humanity as stipulated
in Article 11 of the Law No 27/2010 of 19/6/2010 relating to elections as modified and
complemented to date;
4) a person who confessed and pleaded guilty to the crime of genocide against the Tutsi and crimes
against humanity as set out in Article 11 of the Law No 27/2010 of 19/6/2010 relating to elections
as modified and complemented to date;
5) a person who was convicted of the crime of defilement;
6) a person who was convicted of the crime of rape;
7) a prisoner;
8) a refugee.
Source: Rwanda electoral code Chapter 2 Article 3. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: d) The National Electoral Commission
Source: Law governing elections in Rwanda Chapter 1 article 7. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: Law governing elections in Rwanda Chapter 1 article 12. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office
Comments: In order for a person to register on the voters’ register, he or she shall present his or her national identity card or any other document issued by a competent Authority attesting his or her Rwandan nationality.
Source: Law governing elections in Rwanda Chapter 1 article 10. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Law governing elections in Rwanda Chapter 1 article 12. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: Any political organisation or coalition of political organisations shall introduce a closed list of its candidates. The closed list of the candidates of a political organisation or coalition of political organisations shall comprise of a maximum of eighty (80) candidates. The list of candidates of a political organisation or coalition of political organisations shall be accompanied by a statement bearing the signatures of the members of the supreme organ of the political organisation or coalition of political organisations, having determined the list. The lists of candidates shall be submitted to the National Electoral Commission at least thirty five days (35) before the polling day.
Source: Laws governing elections in Rwanda Article 91. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) c . Regional distribution requirement f . Other
Comments:
Source: Laws governing elections in Rwanda Article 70. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration j . Other
Comments: Any Rwandan is eligible to be a member of the Chamber of Deputies if he or she is:
1° at least twenty-one (21) years of age;
2° a person of integrity;
3° not subject to disenfranchisement.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 101: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2018/11/02
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship j . Other
Comments: a) Being at least forty years old;
j) Being an inararibonye (higly skilled person);
having irreproachable morals and probity;
not having been deprived of civil and political rights.
Source: IPU Parline Database:
http://www.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2376.htm
Art.32 de la loi organique
Verified: 2018/11/02
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence j . Other
Comments: A candidate for the office of the President of the Republic should:
1) be of a Rwandan nationality by origin;
2) not hold any other nationality;
3) be of irreproachable in his or her conduct and social relations;
4) not to have been definitely sentenced to a term of imprisonment equal to or exceeding six (6)
months;
5) not to have been deprived of his or her civil and political rights;
6) be at least thirty-five (35) years of age on the date of the submission of his or her candidature;
7) be resident in Rwanda at the time of submitting his or her candidacy.
Source: Rwanda electoral Code Chapter 4 Article 20. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: Independent candidature for legislative elections shall be considered as an individual closed list. All candidatures are presented at national level. The identification of an independent candidate shall be accompanied by a list of at least six hundred (600) Rwandan citizens who affixed their signatures or fingerprints on his/her list and registered on the electoral list, including at least twelve (12) people domiciled in each District.
Source: Laws governing elections in Rwanda Article 94. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) d . Other
Comments: Signature, birth certificate, voters card......
Source: Laws governing elections in Rwanda Article 94. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) d . Other
Comments:
Source: Laws governing elections in Rwanda Article 94. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
e . No information available
Comments: During elections in which political organizations campaign for their candidates, the Government shall provide in its budget grants to political organizations and independent candidates for the campaign activities. The amount of money that shall be entitled to political organizations and independent candidates shall be equal.
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 28. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2018/11/02
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 28. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
f . No information available
Comments: The public grant is equally distributed to political organizations and independent candidates that have obtained at least five per cent (5%) of the electoral votes.
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 28. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: A political organization may receive donations and bequests
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 24. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure c . Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources i . Other
Comments:
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 24. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of candidate contributions received b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
Comments:
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 26. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2024/12/04
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: The Office of Ombudsman
Source: Rwanda laws governing PP and Politicians Chapter IV Article 27. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-laws-governing-political-parties-and politicians
Verified: 2024/12/04
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
Comments:
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
Comments:
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
Comments: A ballot paper that shall be used in Presidential elections is a designed paper bearing a list of qualified
candidates, listed according to the order of receipt of presidential candidatures.
Source: Rwanda Electoral Code Article 69. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Vote counting shall be held in each Polling room, and carried out by Assessors under the supervision of Polling room Coordinator after the time for closure of polls.
Source: Rwanda Electoral Code Article 94. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential-election
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) f . Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud l . Counted by hand s . Copies of results are provided to party agents
Comments:
Source: Rwanda Electoral Code Article 95. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
a . Polling centre (several polling stations in same building)
Comments: Election officials in the polling room shall consolidate results immediately after counting
Source: Rwanda Electoral Code Article 95 (8). https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported h . Other
Comments: The Polling station Coordinator, after consolidation of election results from each Polling room, shall put
the report in an appropriate envelope, writes the name and number of the Polling station, seals,
stamps it and sends it to the Sector Election coordinator, who shall send it to the District election
coordinator as well.
Source: Rwanda Electoral Code Article 100 (8). https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
h . Other
Comments: Election coordinator at District level, after consolidation of votes of each candidate from Polling
stations in the District, shall announce publicly election results, and prepares the relevant report which
shall be submitted to the Chairman of the National Electoral Commission in a sealed and stamped
envelope or by any other quick means approved by the National Electoral Commission
Source: Rwanda Electoral Code Article 101. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The National Electoral Commission shall declare provisional and final electoral results. Declaration of provisional electoral results shall be done in a period not exceeding five (5) days after closure of polls.
Source: Laws governing elections in Rwanda Article 70. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Chairman of the National Electoral Commission shall announce final election results
within seven (7) days after the publication of provisional results.
Source: laws governing election in Rwanda Chapter 10 Article 104. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2024/12/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: The High Council of Media shall ensure that equal access to State media is guaranteed to all independent candidates, political organisations and coalitions of political organisations in competition.
Source: Loi organique n°03/2010/OL et loi n°27/2010 relative aux élections (2010), art. 67: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/
Verified: 2017/03/03
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: EU Observation Mission, Final Report on the Legislative Elections of 15-18 September 2008: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-final-report-legislative-elections-to-the/view
Verified: 2017/03/03
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2017/03/03
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no maximum limit.
Source: EU Observation Mission, Final Report on the Legislative Elections of 15-18 September 2008: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-final-report-legislative-elections-to-the/
Verified: 2017/03/03
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015), Art. 1: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2017/03/03
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: It shall not be permitted to cede or exchange part of the territory of Rwanda or join to Rwanda part of another country without the consent of the people by referendum.
If a constitutional amendment concerns the term of the President of the Republic or the system of democratic government based on political pluralism, or the constitutional regime established by this Constitution especially the
republican form of the government or national sovereignty, the amendment must be passed by referendum, after adoption by each Chamber of Parliament.
Source: Constitution (2015), Art. 167, 175: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/view
Verified: 2017/03/03
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Upon the proposal of the Cabinet and after receiving an advisory opinion of the Supreme Court, the President of the Republic may call a referendum on issues of general national interest, on a bill of an ordinary Law, on a bill of an Organic Law or Decree relating to the signature of an international treaty or agreement which is not inconsistent with the Constitution but has repercussions on functioning of state institutions.
Source: Constitution (2015), Art. 107: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2017/03/03
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2017/03/03
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2017/03/03
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments: No information available on mandatory referendums
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-2010/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: No information available
Source:
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: No information available
Source:
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) Creation of a federation with other states.
C:44 "The President of the Republic: "6) shall negotiate, conclude, and ratify all international treaties, conventions, and agreements, whether of public or private law, and send them to the National Assembly as soon as allowed by the State's interest and security. However, [...] - treaties, conventions, and agreements involving financial implications not anticipated in the budget, shall be enforceable only following approval by law. The federation of the Republic of Rwanda with one or several other democratic States must be approved by means of a referendum;"
Source: The 2003 Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, art. 44
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues
Comments: C:47 "The President of the Republic may, on the advice of the Government and the National Assembly, submit to a referendum any bill or any other matter."
Source: The 2003 Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, art. 47
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) Matters concerning the creation of a federation with other states, which implies mandatory referendum.
Source: The 2003 Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, art. 44
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . President
Comments: The initiative to call a Referendum shall lie within the ambit of the President of the Republic.
Source: The 2010 Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, art. 47 http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-2010/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: The referendum shall take the form of a question asked to eligible voters and to provide responses regarding questions asked shall be determined by the instructions of the National Electoral Commission
Source: Electoral laws Article 175. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments:
Source: Electoral laws Article 175. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: The format of the ballot paper shall be determined by the instructions of the National Electoral Commission.
Source: Electoral laws Article 175. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments:
Source: Electoral laws Article 175. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
a . Simple majority (>50%)
Comments: The opinion expressed by more than a half of voters shall prevail and competent authorities shall execute it.
Source: Electoral laws Article 175. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
a . Simple majority (>50%)
Comments: The opinion expressed by more than a half of voters shall prevail and competent authorities shall execute it.
Source: Electoral laws Article 175. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments: C:44 "The President of the Republic: "6) shall negotiate, conclude, and ratify all international treaties, conventions, and agreements, whether of public or private law, and send them to the National Assembly as soon as allowed by the State's interest and security. However, [...] - treaties, conventions, and agreements involving financial implications not anticipated in the budget, shall be enforceable only following approval by law. The federation of the Republic of Rwanda with one or several other democratic States must be approved by means of a referendum;"
Source: The 2003 Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, art. 44. http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments:
Source: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/view
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015), Art. 167,175: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015), Art. 107: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution (2015): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
h . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2018/11/02
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
e . 1961-1980
Comments:
Source: http://africanelections.tripod.com/rw.html
Verified: 2018/11/02
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections c . At any polling station in the same country
Comments: Le nombre de bureaux de vote est fixé par la Commission Electorale Indépendante.
Article 52: Students, military, police personnel and such other people when it is regarded necessary, are permitted to vote in the electoral area from where they did not register but a written statement shall be made thereafter.
Source: Organic law N° 03/2010/OL of 18/06/2010 governing presidential and parliamentary elections, art. 52: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/ (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
Comments: Possible for all voters abroad.
Article 52: Students, military, police personnel and such other people when it is regarded necessary, are permitted to vote in the electoral area from where they did not register but a written statement shall be made thereafter.
Source: Organic law N° 03/2010/OL of 18/06/2010 governing presidential and parliamentary elections, art. 10, 177 - 186: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/ (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies
Comments:
Source: Organic law N° 03/2010/OL of 18/06/2010 governing presidential and parliamentary elections, art. 31 (2), 177 - 186: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/ (2017)
Verified: 2024/12/04
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Each polling room has its own voters' list, which includes not more than seven hundred (700) voters,
casting their votes in one (1) Village.
Source: Rwanda Electoral code Chapter 2 Article 5. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: A voter fingerprints or ticks in the appropriate box that follows the box with a photograph of the candidate he or she has voted.
Source: Organic law N° 03/2010/OL of 18/06/2010 governing presidential and parliamentary elections, art. 57: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-organic-law-nb0-17-2003-of-07-07-2003/ (2017)
Rwanda Electoral code Chapter 8 Article 87. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified: 2024/12/04
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station:
The largest polling station:
Average per polling station: 5
Source
Rwanda Electoral code Chapter 3 Article 15. https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-electoral-code-regulating-the-presidential
Verified
2024/12/04
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