Rwanda's structure of power will sustain Kagame

Subject

Basis of power in Rwanda.

Significance

Rwanda's stability is built around President Paul Kagame. Power rests with the president and a circle of senior military and economic elites. This group has changed over time as Kagame has cemented control through a system of political exclusion, local support and business interests.

Impacts

• Exiled Rwandan dissidents are unlikely to pose a serious challenge to Kagame in the near term.
• Donors will weigh economic growth results and stability against concerns over governance.
• Kigali will try to expand relations through regional and continental partnerships to counter international pressure.