President Paul Kagame has received the oaths of Senator Gasamagera Wellars and Member of Parliament Niyonshuti Ben, urging them to fulfil their responsibilities properly as they take up their positions in Rwanda’s Parliament.
Gasamagera was selected by the forum of political parties legally operating in Rwanda, replacing Donatille Mukabalisa, who passed away in July 2026.
Niyonshuti was elected to represent the youth, replacing Venuste Icyitegetse, who resigned from the position in June 2026 for personal reasons.
Speaking at the swearingin ceremony, President Kagame said the occasion marked the beginning of important responsibilities to serve the country. He reminded the new officials that their duties extend beyond legislation to include broader oversight of government activities and other institutions. “Regarding Parliament, leaders have many things to oversee, including matters related to government activities, which also extend to other institutions. In order for people to fulfill these responsibilities properly, they must have knowledge, vision, and the right attitude. It is not only about fulfilling laws.”
The Head of State explained that Rwandan culture requires leaders to go beyond what is prescribed by law, particularly when addressing problems that could otherwise continue affecting citizens. “Problems that can be solved should be removed from the way, difficult issues should continuously be addressed, and people should work together.”
President Kagame said resources are often available to help leaders address challenges facing the country. However, when resources are insufficient, leaders should begin with what is possible while seeking additional resources to address the remaining challenges.
He added that the swearing-in of Gasamagera and Niyonshuti also served as a reminder to other serving officials and those who will assume public office in the future to carry out their responsibilities properly.
Gasamagera’s Career and Experience
Senator Gasamagera holds a PhD from Monarch Business School in Switzerland and a Master’s degree in Governance from the University of Québec in Canada.
Between 1997 and 2001, he served as Prefect of the former Kigali Ngari Prefecture.
He has held several other positions, including serving as Rwanda’s Ambassador to Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe. He was also a Senator from 2003 to 2011 and Director of the Rwanda Management Institute (RMI), the national institution responsible for training in human resource and asset management.
From 2023, Gasamagera served as Secretary-General of the RPF-Inkotanyi until December 2025.
