NPR

Rwanda's Kagame Has Ushered In Peace And Progress, And Crushed Dissent

For nearly two decades, Paul Kagame has led Rwanda. Many consider him a national hero for ending a genocide that killed 800,000 people. But he's ruled with an iron fist and silenced all opposition.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame greets the crowd after addressing supporters at the closing rally of the presidential campaign in the capital, Kigali, this week. Kagame has been in power 23 years and is expected to win a third term. / MARCO LONGARI / Getty Images

Some people walked hours to get to Shyira. They trekked down the steep hills that surround the small town in northern Rwanda last month not only to celebrate Liberation Day, but to get a close view of the country's president, Paul Kagame.

As music rose from the speakers, Kagame emerged from the behind the stage, a small man wearing his trademark black rim glasses.

The crowd went wild — they waved; they sang; they screamed. At least there, you would be hard-pressed to find any detractors.

Angelique Nakure said Kagame has built schools and hospitals and he would do even more

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