EAC launches consultations on drafting of Constitution for political confederation in Rwanda

Launching the consultations on Monday in the capital city Kigali, Usta Kaitesi, Rwandan Minister of State for Foreign Affairs described the event as a significant milestone in Rwanda's contribution to the East African integration, as it provides an opportunity for citizens to actively participate and share their views to inform the confederation constitution making process.

The consultations will be followed by stakeholder engagements in Rubavu, Huye and Nyagatare districts, before concluding on June 27.

Views will be sought from various stakeholders including government institutions, Parliament, the Judiciary, academia, civil society, the private sector, youth, women, persons with disabilities, faith-based organizations, political parties and the media, according to the EAC Secretary General Stephen Mbundi.

The process seeks to ensure that the Constitution reflects the aspirations and expectations of the people of East Africa.

“These engagements are designed to deepen public participation in shaping the institutional and governance framework of the Political Confederation and to ensure that Rwanda’s perspectives are fully reflected in the draft Constitution,” Mbundu said.

According to a statement by the EAC issued earlier, the exercise forms part of the bloc’s ongoing efforts to involve citizens and stakeholders in shaping the future governance framework of the Community and advancing the region's political integration agenda.

The EAC political confederation is the transitional stage in the region’s integration process towards the ultimate goal of a Political Federation of East African States. It is the fourth and final pillar of integration, preceded by the Customs Union, the Common Market, and the Monetary Union.