Kigali, 19 October 2026 — The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) conducts a training session for its commissioners, staff, civil society representatives and media on the legal framework governing local leadership and National Council elections, with a focus on protecting and promoting human rights throughout the electoral process.

The training brings together 53 participants to strengthen their understanding of electoral laws and regulations, the relationship between human rights and elections, and the responsibilities of election observers.

A key focus of the training was the dos and don’ts of the electoral process, particularly for election observers. Participants were guided on what they should and should not do before, during and after elections, including respecting electoral laws and procedures, remaining impartial, avoiding interference in the voting process, and conducting observation activities professionally and within their mandate.

The training comes ahead of the October–November 2026 elections of leaders of decentralized administrative entities and National Councils. Topics include the rights and responsibilities of voters and candidates, direct and indirect elections, the stages of the electoral process, and the preparation of observation reports and recommendations.

Through this initiative, NCHR seeks to strengthen collaboration between the Commission and civil society while equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to monitor elections and contribute to transparent, credible and human rights-respecting electoral processes.

The training is part of NCHR’s mandate to promote and protect human rights through public awareness and capacity-building for institutions, civil society and other stakeholders.