In his speech during the campaign event held in Rugerero sector in Rubavu District on June 23, 2024, President Kagame touched on Rwanda’s relations with neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Residents of Rubavu, especially those in border sectors like Rugerero, asserted that their security is well-maintained, even though they often hear gunfire from nearby areas in the DRC.

RPF presidential flag bearer Paul Kagame receives a warm reception at Rugerero sector in Rubavu District on June 23, 2024.

Kagame highlighted that security is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s development because, without it, progress is impossible.

He said, "Nothing can be achieved without security. Security is essential, and it is provided by everyone; you as Rwandans are the primary contributors to security."

The RPF flag bearer went on to explain that security agencies perform their duties based on the foundation laid by the citizens.

A huge ecstatic crowd turned up for the RPF Inkotanyi campaigns which entered day two on Sunday, June 23, 2024.

He said, "The other security agencies you see rely on you, they are built on you, the goodwill among you makes it possible to achieve complete security, enabling Rwandans to reach their goals."

Kagame explained that Rwanda is secure because of everyone’s contribution.

The RPF Inkotanyi candidate told the citizens that as long as they continue to contribute to the country’s development as they have for the past 30 years, anyone wishing ill upon Rwanda will find no opportunity.

He said, "Those born in the last 30 years, some have become ministers, some travel by plane, others have studied and excelled, but we have achieved all this through our usual hard work, good mindset, dedication, and ambition. Where would anyone wishing ill upon Rwanda find a way in? Nowhere. And as we progress and build more, we also build the capacity to ensure that our achievements endure."

Since 2023, President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi have expressed intentions to attack Rwanda and oust Paul Kagame from power. These statements have severely deteriorated relations between Rwanda and these countries.

Kagame emphasized that Rwanda seeks to live peacefully with everyone but is ready to confront anyone who wishes to harm it. He said, "We want to live in harmony with our neighbours and others, especially African countries and others far beyond. For us, the primary goal is to coexist peacefully, but when you build with the intention of peaceful coexistence, you must also be prepared. If someone does not wish to coexist peacefully and seeks to harm you, are you ready? That is the question we continually seek to answer in our own way."

The RPF Inkotanyi candidate stated that Rwandans prioritize doing what concerns them and achieving their ambitions; if it involves cooperation or peaceful coexistence with other countries, they will do so, but if "other things" arise, they are prepared for those too.