BadRama: Terror, Deception, Exploitation and Arrogance Have Become the Pillars of Paul Kagame's Rule

Mupende Ramadhan, widely known as BadRama, says he remains committed to the same path as other Rwandans who advocate for human rights and condemn what they describe as injustice, repression, and killings carried out under the FPR-Inkotanyi government. According to him, this is the only path that can restore peace in Rwanda, guarantee freedom for all citizens, and rebuild healthy relations with neighboring countries and the international community.

In a program broadcast on his BADRAMATV YouTube channel on July 25, BadRama discussed what he described as a critical issue for Rwanda's future. He argued that understanding this issue could help Rwandans explain why the country has shifted from being regarded as a model of development to becoming increasingly associated with political tensions and conflicts, both domestically and in its relations with the international community.

The program was titled "Terror, Deception, Exploitation and Arrogance Have Become the Pillars of Paul Kagame's Rule." Throughout the discussion, BadRama argued that these four elements form the foundation of President Paul Kagame's system of governance. He also outlined what he believes are their consequences for the Rwandan people and the country as a whole.

He began by explaining what he referred to as "a regime of terror" or "an authoritarian regime," describing it as a government that uses fear as a tool to maintain power and control the population. According to him, political science research identifies ten common characteristics of such governments, and he argued that all of them can be observed in Rwanda under FPR rule.

The first characteristic he identified was the use of fear as a political weapon, arguing that many citizens are afraid to express their opinions openly, while government critics often fear arrest, surveillance, or other forms of retaliation.

The second, he said, is the suppression of freedom of expression, arguing that independent media outlets are obstructed or shut down, while journalists and writers risk harassment or imprisonment.

He also pointed to the exclusion of political opponents, arguing that opposition politicians may be imprisoned, prevented from engaging in political activities, or forced into exile. He further claimed that elections are not conducted in a manner that provides equal opportunities for all candidates. As examples, BadRama cited the treatment of opposition politician Faustin Twagiramungu during the 2003 presidential election and in the years that followed.

Another characteristic he highlighted was the use of security institutions for political purposes. According to BadRama, the police, military, and intelligence services are used to monitor and intimidate government critics rather than protect all citizens equally. He argued that Rwanda's security institutions have increasingly become instruments serving the interests of President Paul Kagame and his family.

BadRama also argued that the judiciary lacks independence, claiming that courts do not always issue impartial rulings in politically sensitive cases and that laws are used to punish individuals viewed by the government as political opponents rather than to protect citizens' rights.

He further discussed the use of propaganda and information control, arguing that the government controls much of the information available to the public, while critics of the government are often portrayed as enemies of the nation or subjected to smear campaigns.

Among the other characteristics he mentioned was restrictions on independent organizations and opposition political parties, arguing that non-governmental organizations, opposition parties, and even religious institutions face pressure from the authorities.

He also referred to what he described as “a cult of personality”, in which the head of state is portrayed as infallible, his achievements are excessively glorified, and criticizing him is treated as an act of disloyalty.

Another characteristic of authoritarian rule, according to BadRama, is “the suppression of peaceful protests”, with demonstrations being prohibited or dispersed through the use of force.

He concluded his overview by arguing that “the absence of accountability” is another defining feature of authoritarian governments, claiming that public officials are often shielded from investigation or prosecution over alleged misconduct because oversight institutions lack independence.

In the closing remarks of his program, BadRama called on Rwandans to unite in pursuit of a country founded on freedom, justice, and security for all. He argued that, as increasing numbers of Rwandans continue to leave the country, every effort should be made to build a nation that respects human rights and allows citizens to express their views without fear of intimidation or abuse.

He added that the pursuit of truth and the protection of human rights are among the essential steps toward achieving lasting peace in Rwanda and building a better future for all Rwandans.