Rwandan President Paul Kagame has dismissed Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente as part of a sweeping leadership reshuffle that signals a significant shift in the country’s executive leadership.
Ngirente, who had held the position since 2017, was removed from office on Wednesday, according to a statement from the government spokesperson’s office.
He has been replaced by Justin Nsengiyumva, a former banker with experience in public administration and economic policy.
Following his appointment, Nsengiyumva said, “I fully embrace the responsibility entrusted to me and remain committed to advancing our national priorities with integrity and purpose. I will give all I have in me to help you [President] achieve your great vision for this country.”
Under Rwanda’s Constitution, the appointment of a new prime minister requires the formation of a new Cabinet within 15 days, setting the stage for further changes in the country’s leadership.
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Although no official reason was given for Ngirente’s dismissal, the move is widely viewed as part of Kagame’s broader strategy to realign key leadership roles in line with Rwanda’s ongoing development goals.
Ngirente’s nearly seven-year term saw him lead a number of policy efforts aimed at driving economic growth, building infrastructure, and strengthening regional partnerships, Reuters reported.
His replacement reflects Kagame’s continued focus on appointing technocratic leaders with economic expertise, an approach seen as essential to sustaining Rwanda’s reputation as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies amid regional shifts.
The reshuffle is the latest in a series of high-level government changes that highlight Kagame’s strong control over state affairs and the centralised structure of Rwanda’s political system.
Earlier the same day, Kagame met briefly with the prime minister-designate for consultations and to align on key national priorities, according to a statement posted on the president’s official Facebook page.
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