Rwandans need to take extra precautions during the on-going parliamentary election period to ensure that the campaigns and subsequent polls are conducted in an environment that is free and secure. The message was delivered yesterday by the Rwanda National Police spokesperson, Commissioner of Police Theos Badege, in an exclusive interview with The New Times. Badege warned against too much excitement during the election season that may lead to some people forgetting to respect traffic rules and uphold security measures designed to ensure that people are safe at campaign rallies. “We need crime-free elections. We want to conduct elections in a free and secure environment,” he said, urging Rwandans to remain sensitive to security matters during the campaign and elections. Among the things to be avoided by citizens, the officer said, is to overload cars with supporters during the campaign process and trying to transport people in cars that are not meant for passenger transportation such as trucks.
He also warned against overworking drivers during the election campaigns and said that drivers need time to rest in order to avoid accidents. Badege warned motorists against drink driving or use of cars in poor mechanical conditions.
“Some people tend to think that traffic rules loosen a bit during election season but it’s actually the other way around. During elections we actually have to tighten traffic rules,” Badege said.
Full Article: Police ask public to stay calm, vigilant during election season | The New Times | Rwanda.
