The leaking of Diane Shima Rwigara’s nude photos have not dampened her spirit to challenge President Paul Kagame for the country’s top seat.

Rwaigara, 35, on Tuesday submitted her nomination papers to the National Electoral Commission (NEC).

Her nomination papers – 600 signatures of at least 12 registered voters from each of the 30 districts of Rwanda, proof of Rwandan citizenship and a birth certificate – were received by NEC chairman Prof Kalisa Mband and other three commissioners.

Rwigara was accompanied by scores of supporters, among them her mother Adeline Mukangemanyi. Mukangemanyi held her Bible.

Others that have submitted their papers to challenge Kagame in the August 4 poll include Frank Habineza, the chairman and flag bearer of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and Gilbert Mwenedata, an independent candidate.

The deadline for Kagame and other interested candidates to express interest in the presidency is June 23.

Kagame’s Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) nominated him as flagbearer at the weekend.

The NEC will publish the list of candidates on June 27, ahead of the start of campaigns on July 07.