After a long period of leadership uncertainty, the National Paralympic Committee of Rwanda (NPC Rwanda) is finally moving toward new elections following the release of the official list of approved candidates for its next executive committee.
The development marks a major step forward for the body that oversees sports for persons with disabilities in Rwanda, ending months of internal disagreements that had stalled operations and delayed the renewal of leadership.
Elections Set After Months of Deadlock
Originally, elections were due in June 2025, when the mandate of the committee led by Jean Baptiste Murema expired. However, disputes between some executive members and the broader membership disrupted the process, causing what insiders described as a “governance vacuum.”
The National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) intervened to help resolve the impasse, convening all parties and ensuring compliance with internal regulations.
Emmanuel Ndayisaba, said the NCPD Executive Secretary, confirmed that the disagreements had been settled and that elections are now officially scheduled for August 8, 2025. “We have reached a point of consensus and stability. It is now time to allow new leadership to take the organization forward,” Ndayisaba said.
Final List of Candidates Released
The special electoral committee overseeing the process has now released the names of all candidates cleared to contest positions for the next four-year term.
At the top, three contenders will vie for the Presidency of NPC Rwanda:
Jean Paul Sekarema, who had initially applied for multiple positions but was required to choose one,
Ephrem Mushimiyimana, and
Dominique Bizimana, one of the organization’s honorary members.
For the First Vice President seat, competition will be among Espérance Kanyange, Innocent Mutabazi, and Jean Claude Ngabonziza.
The Second Vice President race will see Hesron Uwitonze as the sole approved candidate after Liliane Mukobwankawe was disqualified for incomplete documentation.
Other Executive Positions
Secretary-General: Célestin Nzeyimana (honorary member)
Treasurer: Marie Claire Iriza and Théoneste Ndayambaje
Women’s Representative: Marie Claire Mukanganizi (unopposed)
Head of Dispute Resolution: Augustin Ngendanumwe (unopposed)
Athletes’ Representative: Jean Claude Ndahiro (unopposed)
The Financial Auditor position attracted the highest competition, with six approved contenders, including Solange Cyamenyerwa, Marthe Ingabire, Gratien Munyaneza, Edouard Habimana, Basilien Hakuzimana, and Solange Uwiteka.
For the Advisory Committee, Jean Pierre Nkurayija, Elise Byukusenge, and Davide Twizerimana have been cleared to compete.
One applicant, Sarah Kwizera, was dropped from the race after failing to provide key documents, including a nomination endorsement and a court clearance certificate.
A Turning Point for Para Sports Governance
Observers view these elections as a crucial opportunity to rebuild trust and strengthen governance within Rwanda’s Paralympic movement.
The vote, scheduled for early August, is expected to usher in a more transparent and united leadership capable of advancing the rights and performance of athletes with disabilities.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
