Ssabavandimwe Gashumba Shines At President Kagame’s Inauguration!

The Vice Chairperson of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) for the Central Region Frank Gashumba, was a distinguished guest at President Paul Kagame’s swearing-in ceremony in Kigali, Rwanda on Sunday. This marked Kagame’s third term as President, having first taken an elective office in 2000 before becoming the defacto President in 1994 following the Genocide.

Frank Gashumba the PLU Vice Chairperson Central Region in Kigali at President Kagame ‘s inauguration.

The inauguration followed Kagame’s landslide victory in the August 9, 2024, presidential elections, where he secured 98.76% of the votes, defeating his closest rival, Philippe Mpayimana, who garnered 0.75% of the votes. The elections were hailed as peaceful and transparent, with voter turnout exceeding 90%.

Vice Chairperson PLU-Central Region Frank Gashumba with Kenya’s Opposition Politician Raila Odinga in Kigali at the Inauguration.

At the ceremony, Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo administered the oath of office to President Kagame, solidifying his third term in office.

Gashumba was among the top priority guests, seated at number 10, and was honored with a red pin stone bearing the Rwanda flag, reserved for the President’s inner circle. Forget about the paper and string like tags commonly used in Kampala. Gashumba was impressed by the event’s organization, tweeting, “It was the most organized event I have attended in my entire life. Congratulations Rwanda!”

Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba in UPDF Uniform also attended the Inauguration in Kigali.

As a vocal Advocate for the rights of Banyarwanda born and raised in Uganda, Gashumba’s presence was significant. He has tirelessly fought for their access to passports, national IDs, and an end to discrimination by Kampala authorities.

At the event, Gashumba who also doubles as the Chairman Council for Abavandimwe was later treated to a State Luncheon, transported in a VIP vehicle with lead motorcycles in a video clip which Our Reporter has seen on various social media platforms. He was in good company, with Uganda’s Vice President, Retired Major Jessica Alupo, representing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The Vice President of Democratic Party Mukasa Mbidde equally attended.

President Paul Kagame and the First Lady Janet Kagame at the Inauguration.

At least 22 presidents attended , 14 Vice Presidents and 7 Prime Ministers from different countries graced the inauguration. Also the Chief of Defence Forces of Uganda , General Muhoozi Kainerugaba who is also the Chairperson of PLU was one of the key dignitaries at Kagame’s Inauguration.

His Excellency Paul Kagame delivering his Inauguration Speech on Sunday.

Gashumba’s experience at the inauguration was a testament to his influence and commitment to regional cooperation and human rights.