Rwanda holds presidential poll

Rwandans are voting for a new president with the result widely tipped as a foregone conclusion.

Despite allegations of a clampdown on opposition groups current incumbent Paul Kagame is predicted to win another seven year term.

Around 5.2 million people are registered to vote in the election, the second since the country’s genocide in 1994.

Critics claim the ballot in the central African state lacks any serious opposition, with all three rival parties seen as uncritical of the government.

It means, Kagame is expected to romp to victory, like he did in 2003 when he polled 95 percent of the vote.

Supporters of Kagame say he has masterminded Rwanda’s reconstruction, bringing stability and economic growth.

Nevertheless, the suspected murder of opposition figures and a journalist have proved politically damaging. In addition, two opposition groups were prevented from registering and a third was broken up, adding to accusations that the vote is a charade.

Copyright © 2012 euronews