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The conference, organised by United Action for Peace, is on-going in the Seattle Hotel in Brighton, UK. It was opened by Aloys Manzi, the head of UAP, where he welcomed the delegates and participants prior to commencing the conference. Mr Ali, also a member of UAP, outlined the ground rules of the meeting and the demographics of UAP. He explained that UAP is an independent organisation, which aims to make the Rwandans come together with Politicians as well as civil rights groups meet and discuss on the solution for the challenges faced in their country. He highlighted that UAP is not a political party but pushing for the action of peace that is in the best interest of every one, not only Rwanda, but also in other parts of the world where peace is desperately needed.

Among the Delegates is the head of Ishema Political Party, Padiri Thomas Nahimana, Gervais Condo from the Rwanda National Congress, Rene Mugenzi, head of the Global Campaign for Human Rights, Ambrose Nzeyimana Human Right activist, Gen Kayumba Nyamwasa RNC who followed on video link and many other participants from different organisations as well as Rwandan community in the UK. Members of the press were also in attendance.

UAP having dinner

In this conference, even though there were many politicians from different political parties they all appeared to agree on the way forward for their country. The topics discussed included development and its challenges, of which it appeared that they all agreed that there are visible signs of development in Rwanda but it is also evident that this development is only benefiting only a few elite members of the nation thus callings its sustainability into question. This topic of development was due to be presented by the Rwanda Patriotic Front delegate, only to announce at the last minute that it was not possible for them to attend. However it was arranged by UAP that the Rwanda government website which indicates the achievements of Rwanda be viewed on the big screen by the participants. Also among the participants some managed to explain the interesting achievements of the Rwandan government; however they all agreed that the current government has failed to lift the majority from poverty and deep rooted corruption still exists in Rwanda in favour of employment and cohesion to those who do not support the ruling party.

Also discussed was the topic of Democracy and good governance which also was a mixture of exchanging constructive ideas. Gen Kayumba Nyamwasa took time explaining the negatives and positives of the overall challenges of the above topic. Gen Nyamwasa also gave examples of democracy and good governance in Africa.

The meeting continued into the evening hours with all the participants getting along well on most topics discussed. More topics such as Justice and Fundamental Human Rights, Unity and Reconciliation will be discussed in day two the meeting which will be held June 14, 2013.

Source: Inyenyeri News