Dr. Frank Habineza, President of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda and newly sworn-in Senator, has shared fresh insight into how he is preparing for his upper-house duties and why a sharp remark from fellow legislator Evode Uwizeyimana pushed him back into the classroom to study law. He also confirmed that his political ambitions — including one day leading Rwanda — remain very much alive.
Speaking to IGIHE, Dr. Habineza recalled a televised political debate several years ago when Senator Evode challenged his credibility in lawmaking by saying that debating laws without having studied them was like “committing suicide.” That message, he says, resonated deeply, and he immediately decided to pursue a law degree despite already holding a PhD. He is now in his final year at the University of Kigali and plans to advance his legal studies further, potentially up to a doctorate in law.
He emphasized that his decision was not driven by rivalry but by the need to strengthen his capacity to advocate for citizens within Rwanda’s legislative institutions. He added that he and Evode now enjoy a collegial working relationship in the Senate, discussing issues openly and moving on even when disagreements arise.
Dr. Habineza takes over the Senate seat previously held by his colleague Mugisha Alexis, whose five-year term had come to an end. He dismissed suggestions that Mugisha should have remained, explaining that transitions are normal and that Mugisha continues to hold senior responsibilities within the Green Party. What matters now, he said, is fulfilling the party’s duty to represent Rwandans effectively.
“I remain who I am,” he stated. “The chambers may differ, but our mission does not change. We are here for citizens, and they should know that.”
Defeat does not dim ambition
Habineza has twice run for president and twice fallen short. In the latest election held on July 15, 2024, President Paul Kagame won with 99.18 percent of the vote, while Habineza placed second with 0.50 percent. Still, he insists his candidacy served a democratic purpose — ensuring that alternative ideas are heard.
While acknowledging defeat, he hopes some of his proposals will still influence national policy, especially those aimed at improving social welfare, green development, and broader political participation. Asked if he may one day lead the Senate, he said he is ready to serve wherever citizens and the party trust him to serve. He also made it clear that his presidential aspirations remain intact and that he intends to seek the Green Party’s nomination again in 2029.
His priorities remain focused on poverty reduction, stronger local industries to decrease imports, sustainable urban transport, improved working conditions for teachers and health professionals, and a long-pending national minimum wage — a reform he says must be realized before he leaves Parliament.
Following the 2024 election, the Green Party faced financial difficulties that led to the sale of its headquarters to support campaign needs. With renewed state funding for parliamentary parties, the Green Party has now acquired a new headquarters in Muyumbo, signaling recovery and continued momentum. Habineza thanked electoral officials and security institutions for ensuring peaceful and transparent polls.
The evolution of an opposition party
Reflecting on the Green Party’s role, Dr. Habineza said the party has grown from criticizing government policies broadly to becoming what he calls a “constructive opposition” — one that acknowledges progress where it exists and proposes solutions where improvement is needed.
“Opposition that destroys does not build a country,” he said. “We propose solutions, not problems.”
He concluded by saying that Green Party members continue to grow in number as more Rwandans understand the party’s purpose and commitment to national development.
