Dominique Mbonyumutwa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dominique Mbonyumutwa
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|---|---|
| President of Rwanda | |
| In office 1 January 1960 – 26 October 1961 |
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| Succeeded by | Grégoire Kayibanda |
| Vice President of Rwanda | |
| In office 30 October 1961 – 30 October 1964 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | January 1921 Gitarama, Rwanda |
| Died | 26 July 1986 (aged 65) Brussels, Belgium |
| Political party | MDR-Parmehutu |
| Spouse | Sophie Mbonyumutwa |
| Profession | Teacher |
Dominique Mbonyumutwa (born January 1921 – died 26 July 1986) was an important politician from Rwanda. He was the first President of Rwanda for a short time, from January 1960 to October 1961. This happened after Rwanda stopped being a kingdom and became a republic. He helped make this big change happen.
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Who Was Dominique Mbonyumutwa?
Dominique Mbonyumutwa was a key figure in Rwanda's history. He helped lead the country during a time of major change. He was known for being a teacher before he became a politician.
His Early Life and the Start of Change
Dominique Mbonyumutwa belonged to the Hutu ethnic group. Many people respected him, both before and after he was president. In November 1959, he was working as a local leader, like a mayor today. During this time, an event involving him led to a big change in Rwanda. This change is sometimes called the "social revolution." It meant the end of the king's rule. It also caused many people to leave Rwanda for a long time.
Becoming Rwanda's First President
After the king's rule ended, Dominique Mbonyumutwa became the first President of Rwanda. He took over the government from King Kigeli V Ndahindurwa. He then announced that Rwanda would be a republic. A republic is a country where the people, or their elected representatives, hold the power. This change was confirmed by a special vote called a referendum in 1961. A referendum is when people vote directly on an important issue.
Life After the Presidency
Dominique Mbonyumutwa's time as president ended before Rwanda became fully independent. Grégoire Kayibanda took over as president after him. However, Mbonyumutwa still played a role in Rwandan politics. He became the Vice President. He also held an honorary position, meaning a special title without daily duties. This position was called Chancellor of National Orders. He served later president Juvenal Habyarimana in this role.
His Final Resting Place
Dominique Mbonyumutwa passed away in July 1986 in Belgium. He was buried in Gitarama Stadium in Rwanda. This stadium was important because it was where Rwanda was declared a republic in 1961. His burial there was a way to honor him. In 2010, his remains were moved to a public cemetery. This happened because there were plans to rebuild the stadium.
See also
In Spanish: Dominique Mbonyumutwa para niños
