Rwanda rugby elections hold Sunday

Rwanda Rugby Federation (RRF) (www.RwandaRugby.com) will hold elections on Sunday, November 25 to elect a new executive committee to steer the body for next term.

The elections will see six candidates become elected on the same day when a general assembly takes place.

Former secretary-general Tharcisse Kamanda is the only candidate who has declared to stand for the position of presidency in the forthcoming elections.

This comes days after former president Alexis Araire showed no interest to return for a second term.

Briefly, Kamanda said his decision to stand for the presidency is based on passion and belief that RRF needs new leadership and he’s the right person to lead.

"I want to help Rwanda rugby to grow, through capacity building of the administration and club members as well as increasing the number of participants in the game."

He revealed that if elected into office, his first task is to involve stakeholders and partners to try and have a rugby pitch so that Rwanda can host more international competitions in the future. This will drive rugby to the glory that enthusiasts have sought for a long time.

In addition, he promised to improve the situation of the national team, Silverbacks, and hinted at enough preparations time as a key factor, plus women rugby as well as grassroots and talent detection in schools.

Kamanda has not only been former SG but was the head of referees in 2012-2017, assistant women national coach 2014-2015, national team player and player-coach with Kigali Sharks rugby club.

Two candidates are contesting for the position of vice president; Ernest Rubayiza from Kamonyi Puma rugby club and Phillip Gakirage formerly from Remera Buffaloes rugby club.

Flexi Uwitonze, a former player with University of Rwanda rugby club Grizzlies and Lion de Fer club is the only candidate contesting for the position of Secretary General.

Delphine Ihirwe is the only female candidate re-contesting for the position of treasurer. She represents Remera Buffaloes rugby club. 

Thadée Abizeyimana from the committee in charge of elections said that having one female candidate standing as part of the executive committee which makes decisions is enough to constitute at least 30 per cent of the leadership structure; however he noted that it is still a challenge in the sport.

Meanwhile, John Bosco Muamba, the rugby regional development officer is in Kigali from November 19-25, and he will attend the election as the representative of African rugby.