The election for the Senate Bureau followed the swearing-in of 20 new Senators, including those recently elected from various categories and four appointed by the President of the Republic.

Dr. Kalinda’s candidacy was proposed by Senator Mureshyankwano Marie Rose, who praised his leadership skills and experience. Running unopposed, Kalinda secured 25 out of 26 votes.

In his acceptance remarks, Senator Kalinda expressed gratitude to President Kagame and his fellow Senators for their renewed trust, promising to remain faithful to the confidence placed in him.

Senator Solina Nyirahabimana was elected as Vice President in charge of legislation and government oversight, securing 22 out of 26 votes.

Meanwhile, Senator Alvera Mukabaramba was elected as Vice President in charge of administration and finance with 24 out of 26 votes, also running unopposed.

The newly sworn-in Senators include 12 elected through the country’s governance structures, two elected to represent higher education institutions, two from the political parties forum, and four appointed by the President.

The Senate of Rwanda consists of 26 Senators, with women making up the majority for the first time, comprising 53.9% of the Senate. Six Senators will conclude their terms in 2025.

President Paul Kagame, who officiated the swearing-in ceremony, said that the senators’ experience equips them for the responsibilities ahead.

He emphasized the Senate’s critical role in Rwanda’s development, urging Senators to prioritize accountability, solve citizens’ problems, and place the interests of all Rwandans at the forefront of their work.

The Head of State also assured the Senate of his support and collaboration to deliver on their duties.

Who is Dr. Kalinda?

Dr. François Xavier Kalinda joined the Senate in January 2023 and was immediately elected its President following the resignation of Dr. Iyamuremye.

Born in Kitabi Sector, Nyamagabe District, Dr. Kalinda previously worked as a lecturer and researcher at the University of Rwanda’s College of Arts and Social Sciences, where he was also a member of the academic senate.

After completing his undergraduate studies at the former National University of Rwanda in 1996, Dr. Kalinda earned a Master of Laws in Intellectual Property Rights from the University of Ottawa, Canada, in 1999. He went on to obtain a PhD in Business Law from the University of Strasbourg, France, in 2010.

From October 2015 to December 2022, he served as a member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).

Dr. François Xavier Kalinda has been re-elected as the President of Rwanda's Senate.

Solina Nyirahabimana (left) and Dr. Alvera Mukabaramba (right) are among sworn-in senators.

President Paul Kagame, who officiated the swearing-in ceremony, said that the senators' experience equips them for the responsibilities ahead.