Polling stations in Rwanda have closed as the process of counting votes commences in the country's presidential and parliamentary elections. Paul Kagame, the incumbent leader and de facto ruler of Rwanda, is widely expected to secure another term in office, aiming to extend his decades-long rule for another five years.

The polls opened at 7am local time on Monday and closed at 3pm, with over nine million registered voters across the East African nation. Two other candidates, Frank Habineza from Rwanda's Democratic Green Party, and independent Philippe Mpayimana, were approved to run against Kagame out of eight applicants. Kagame's most prominent critics, Bernard Ntaganda and Victoire Ingabire, were banned from running due to previous convictions, while renowned opposition figure Diane Rwigara was barred from the race for issues with her paperwork.

Kagame, who attained close to 99 percent of the vote in the last election in 2017, is highly likely to retain the presidency. Supporters, like Barimukije Pheneas, expressed confidence in Kagame's leadership, citing his achievements and efforts to unite the nation. However, the Kagame regime faces criticisms from rights groups for alleged autocracy, media suppression, and political oppression.

Amnesty International raised concerns before the elections, highlighting "severe restrictions" faced by the opposition, as well as acts of intimidation, arbitrary detention, and prosecution. Moreover, allegations of Rwandan involvement in stoking unrest in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo persist, although Kigali has denied these claims.

Kagame has also overseen contentious constitutional amendments that reduced presidential terms from seven to five years, allowing him to potentially remain in power until 2034. Nevertheless, despite the criticisms, Kagame enjoys significant domestic support, as his leadership has fostered economic growth, improved infrastructure, and expanded access to education and healthcare.

Additionally, for the first time, Rwanda's parliamentary election is being held concurrently with the presidential vote. Over 500 candidates are vying for 80 seats in the Chamber of Deputies, with 53 being elected through universal suffrage. The RPF currently holds 40 seats, and their allies occupy 11, while the Green Party has two MPs. The remaining seats are reserved for women, youth, and individuals with disabilities, with elections for these positions scheduled for Tuesday.

As the counting of votes is underway, Rwandans eagerly await the official results, widely tipped to affirm Kagame's continued leadership.