On Wednesday, 15th February 2023, Minister of Local Government Musabyimana Jean Claude presided over handover ceremony between the incoming Chairperson National Electral Commission Oda Gasinzigwa and Vice Chairperson Mutimukeye Nicole who has been acting as chairperson since late Kalisa Mbanda’s mandate came to an end last year.

Minister appreciated the great work done during the 10 years tenure of late Prof Mbanda Kalisa from 2012 to 2022 and requested the new NEC leadership to keep the elections turn up record by citizens above 90% and increase it to ensure all citizens participate to vote and elect their leaders at all levels.

He also requested NEC Commissioners who are now 7 (6 Women and 1 Man) to use their expertise and skills to strengthen the performance of NEC.

"We shall collaborate with the Commission but preserve the independence of the Commission. Ministry will do the needful advocacy for the improved performance of the Commission in terms of capacity, budget and operations. " Minister said.

Chairperson applauded the governance system of our Country that has enabled our citizens to exercise their democratic rights including voice and vote. She pledged commitment to join commissioners and they work together as a team.

She expressed the wish to merge Presidential and Parliamentary elections to always be held at the same time. The Elections for members of parliament were fixed in August 2023 while Presidential, Senatorial and City of Kigali are planned in 2024.