President Paul Kagame paid tribute to the soldiers of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) for their courage and sacrifice, saying their dedication changed the course of Rwanda’s history. He noted that many of them did not live to see the country they fought for, but their vision is reflected in today’s Rwanda.
He made the remarks in a national address marking the 32nd anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day.
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Remembering the Past
President Kagame recalled that Rwanda endured many years of politics characterized by exclusion, intimidation, and division.
“The objective of the liberation struggle was to restore to Rwandans what had been taken from them to live with dignity and self-worth. However, those destructive ideologies have not completely disappeared. They still exist in different forms and continue to manifest themselves across our region,” he said.
He stressed that Rwanda’s painful history has made the country determined never to underestimate such ideologies.
“We have seen so much, and we have suffered enough that we can never again treat these ideas lightly.”
Security as the Foundation of Progress
The Head of State emphasized that Rwanda has built its progress on security and good governance, adding that the country’s commitment to security is rooted in protecting its people rather than seeking international praise.
“Without security, nothing else would be possible. That is why we remain vigilant and stand firmly by our principles. What happened in our country will never happen again, for one simple reason: we will not allow it.”
Message to the Younger Generation
President Kagame also addressed Rwanda’s younger generation, many of whom did not experience the country’s darkest chapters firsthand. He urged them to recognize that no one bears greater responsibility for Rwanda’s future than Rwandans themselves.
“Some may support us, while others may disagree with us or fail to understand what we seek to achieve. But one thing we know is that, in the end, anyone can choose to turn their back on us whenever they wish. We have no alternative. It is our responsibility to ensure that every Rwandan can live in peace and prosper in their own country.”
Liberation as an Ongoing Journey
He said that the spirit of liberation is an ongoing journey rather than a completed mission.
“That is why liberation will never come to an end. It must continue evolving with the times and be reflected in the efforts we make to improve the lives of our people year after year.”
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Confidence in Rwanda’s Future
President Kagame concluded by expressing confidence in Rwanda’s future, saying it will continue to be built on unity, the rejection of division, and collective effort.
“What we have achieved over the past 32 years speaks for itself. Let us continue on the right path we have chosen.”
