Dr. Frank Habineza, the leader of Rwanda's Green Party (DGPR) and a senator, has publicly denounced local leaders for intimidating party members. Speaking in the Gicumbi district, where the DGPR is strengthening its structures and providing training to its members, Habineza emphasized that individuals have the right to change political parties without fear of reprisal. He stressed that the only restriction is that one cannot be a member of two political parties simultaneously.
Habineza revealed that some local leaders continue to intimidate Green Party members, a problem observed in the Burera and Gicumbi districts. He urged district leaders to educate all sectors and cells that intimidating Green Party members is against the law and those who do so will be held accountable. According to Habineza, the high turnout of members participating in party activities is a testament to the party's democratic credentials.
The Green Party has made significant progress in establishing its structures in the Gicumbi district, reaching 12 out of 21 sectors. These sectors include Byumba, Nyankenke, Rukomo, Kageyo, Miyove, Cyeru, Rutare, Rwamiko, Mutete, Bukure, Kaniga, and Bwisige. As part of this effort, party members receive discussions and training on the Green Party's principles, their role in party activities, environmental protection, and combating climate change impacts.
During these training sessions, members are also educated on the role of citizens in maintaining peace and security and their importance in promoting sustainable development. This initiative culminates in the election of sector-level party committees, youth committees, and women's committees. A Green Party member from the Bwisige sector stated that the training helped them better understand the party's principles and how to convey them to the public.
A member from the Kaniga sector noted that establishing party structures at the sector level will enable the party to reach out to citizens more effectively and increase the involvement of youth and women in party activities. Dr. Habineza expressed satisfaction with the high turnout of members participating in party activities, sometimes to the point of lacking venues.
He emphasized that establishing party structures at the sector level is crucial in increasing member participation and disseminating the party's principles to citizens. The Green Party's efforts aim to promote democratic values and sustainable development in Rwanda. By strengthening its structures, the party seeks to engage more citizens in the political process.
The Green Party's initiative has been welcomed by its members, who see it as an opportunity to contribute to the country's development. The party's focus on environmental protection and sustainable development resonates with many Rwandans who are concerned about the country's ecological and economic future.
Key points
- Dr. Frank Habineza condemns local leaders for intimidating Green Party members.
- The Green Party has established its structures in 12 sectors of the Gicumbi district.
- The party's efforts aim to promote democratic values and sustainable development in Rwanda.
