The President of the Ideal Democratic Party (PDI), Mussa Fazil Harerimana, told party members that the guidance and good leadership of Paul Kagame should serve as a guiding light for Rwandans today and for generations to come, regardless of future changes in leadership. He made the remarks while opening the PDI National Congress held on June 21, 2026.
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Historical Context
Harerimana reminded party members that Rwanda experienced a painful history marked by poor governance and ethnic discrimination during both the First and Second Republics. He explained that instead of focusing on national development, the leadership of the time was preoccupied with marginalizing and persecuting Tutsis, who were viewed as enemies.
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He emphasized that when Juvénal Habyarimana came to power, many expected him to reverse the poor governance practices established under Grégoire Kayibanda, but according to him, only the leadership personnel changed while the governing ideology remained the same. This poor governance eventually culminated in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which was planned and executed by the government of the time, with the involvement of some political parties.
Liberation and Rebuilding
Harerimana highlighted the role of Rwandan refugees who chose to return home, formed the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), liberated the country, and brought an end to the genocide. He further stated that the Rwandan Patriotic Army, under the leadership of President Kagame, not only stopped the genocide but also played a crucial role in rebuilding a devastated nation.
He stressed that after 32 years, Rwanda’s achievements are visible to all and preserving them is the responsibility of every Rwandan.
Safeguarding Achievements
“Our responsibility is to safeguard Rwanda’s achievements, development, and national unity. The progress for which we are praised today did not happen by chance. It stems from good governance and the strong bond between citizens and their leadership. That relationship allows guidance to be given and transformed into tangible benefits for the population,” Harerimana said.
He added that PDI is guided by three key pillars: ensuring Rwanda continues to be well governed, promoting the fundamental principles enshrined in Article 10 of the Constitution, and ensuring that President Kagame’s guidance continues to illuminate the country’s governance.
Baba wa Taifa
Harerimana stated: “The guidance of Baba wa Taifa should continue to serve as a beacon for Rwanda, both today and for centuries to come. As different administrations succeed one another, this vision should remain our guiding light and a model for the governance of our nation.”
PDI was established in November 1991 to advocate for the rights of groups that faced discrimination at the time, including Rwanda’s Muslim community. The party refers to President Kagame as “Baba wa Taifa”, a Swahili expression meaning “Father of the Nation.” The title is typically bestowed upon individuals recognised for their exceptional contribution to their country, such as Julius Nyerere in Tanzania.
According to Harerimana, the party chose to refer to Kagame as Baba wa Taifa because of his outstanding achievements for Rwanda, which he believes are unparalleled. Among those achievements, he cited national unity, security, and sustainable development in a country that endured the tragic history of the genocide.
