He made these remarks in an exclusive interview with IGIHE following his swearing-in on September 26, 2024.

Dr. Kalinda reflected on his experience since taking over from Dr. Iyamuremye Augustin in 2023.

He expressed his gratitude for the support he received, stating, "I joined the Senate midway through its term, but I was pleased to work with those I found there, as they helped me better understand the Senate’s operations, and together we achieved a lot."

Dr. Kalinda outlined key achievements from the previous term, highlighting that the Senate upheld constitutional principles and successfully passed several important legislative measures.

These included the passage of one constitutional law, seven organic laws, and 18 ordinary laws. The Senate also held 43 standing committee meetings, produced 14 reports on government programs, and engaged in numerous discussions and inquiries.

Dr. Kalinda expressed his appreciation for the confidence placed in him once again by President Paul Kagame and emphasized the importance of collaboration across different levels of governance.

"In this new term, I am honored that the President of the Republic has entrusted me with this role again. My main focus will be fostering cooperation and coordination among institutions. We must listen to the concerns and aspirations of the people, as the Senate is here to help address key national issues," he stated.

When discussing citizen engagement, Dr. Kalinda underscored the importance of using multiple approaches to gather public feedback. This includes direct community outreach and leveraging technology.

"There are multiple ways for the Senate to reach citizens. We can meet them in person, hear their concerns, and engage in discussions on how to resolve them. We also have technological means and can hold consultative meetings to seek further ideas from others," he noted.

Additionally, he emphasized the Senate’s responsibility to conduct research on emerging issues to provide informed recommendations.

He called on his fellow Senators to place citizens at the forefront of their work and to foster a spirit of collaboration.

"What I ask from my fellow Senators as we begin this new term is to work together with mutual respect and understanding, always prioritizing the citizens’ interests above our own."

The Rwandan Senate consists of 26 Senators, with women holding a majority for the first time at 53.9%. In contrast, the previous Senate had 35% female representation.

The Senate’s primary responsibilities include overseeing the constitutional principles, reviewing and passing laws, scrutinizing government activities, monitoring political organizations, and contributing to the national budget review.

Dr. Kalinda will lead the Senate alongside Vice Presidents Ambassador Solina Nyirahabimana, responsible for legislation and government oversight, and Alvera Mukabaramba, who was re-elected as Vice President in charge of finance and administration.

Of the newly sworn-in Senators, 20 have taken office, while six others are continuing their terms until next year.

These include Prof. Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu, Evode Uwizeyimana, Dr. André Twahirwa, and Epiphanie Kanziza, appointed by President Kagame in 2020, as well as Senators Alexis Mugisha and Clotilde Mukakarangwa, elected by the Forum of Political Organizations in 2020.

The President of the Rwandan Senate, Dr. Kalinda François Xavier has expressed his satisfaction with the Senate's accomplishments during the previous term.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the parliamentary buildings in Kimihurura.

Dr. Kalinda has expressed his appreciation for the confidence placed in him once again.

President Paul Kagame officiated the swearing-in ceremony on Thursday.