Rwanda: Human Rights Overview
Published by: Resurgence Network for Human Rights
Rwanda’s image of progress and post-genocide recovery masks a deep and systemic pattern of human rights violations. This report compiles evidence of historical injustices, judicial harassment, political repression, enforced disappearances, and cross-border abuses by the state. The case of Victoire Ingabire exemplifies the silencing of opposition voices.
1. The Case of Victoire Ingabire: A Symbol of Repression
Victoire Ingabire, opposition leader of Dalfa-Umurinzi, was arrested on June 19, 2025. Accused of forming a criminal group and plotting to overthrow the government, her request to be represented by a Kenyan lawyer was denied. Her lawyer is already defending nine party members. The case highlights the erosion of fair trial rights in Rwanda.
2. Silencing Dissent and Enforced Disappearances
- John Williams Ntwali died under suspicious circumstances in January 2023.
- Dieudonné Niyonsenga (Cyuma Hassan) remains jailed since 2021; reports of torture persist.
- Yvonne Idamange received a 17-year sentence for criticism of government policy.
- Aimable Karasira is being tried for divisionism; denied medical and legal rights.
- Numerous independent journalists and YouTubers remain detained or missing.
3. Political Space and Criminalization of Opposition
- Dozens of opposition members remain imprisoned.
- Ingabire Day events led to further arrests and repression.
- Théophile Ntirutwa sentenced to 7 years for “spreading propaganda.”
- Christopher Kayumba was acquitted, then given a suspended sentence.
4. Rwanda’s Regional Destabilization and Role in Congo
- M23 rebels—supported by Rwanda—are committing war crimes and causing mass displacement.
- The UN, EU, and US have condemned Rwanda’s involvement and sanctioned military officials.
5. Arbitrary Detention and Torture
- Security forces detain vulnerable populations at Gikondo Transit Center.
- Reports confirm inhumane conditions and torture at Gikondo and official prisons.
6. Freedom of Expression Under Siege
The government uses laws on “genocide ideology” and “divisionism” to target journalists, critics, and online voices. Surveillance and censorship are widespread.
7. Refugee Rights and International Accountability
- Threats to deport Congolese refugees violate international norms.
- The UK-Rwanda refugee agreement was declared unlawful in 2023.
- Dissidents abroad face harassment and threats from the Rwandan state.
8. Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
Despite legal protections, LGBTQ+ individuals in Rwanda face discrimination and stigma in practice.
9. International Justice and Genocide Accountability
- Fulgence Kayishema arrested in South Africa for 1994 genocide crimes.
- Félicien Kabuga’s trial suspended due to poor health.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The targeting of Victoire Ingabire, alongside journalists and political opponents, reflects a larger system of repression that undermines the values of democracy and justice.
Resurgence Network for Human Rights calls on:
- The Rwandan government to release all political prisoners.
- The Rwanda Bar Association to respect the right to fair legal representation.
- The international community to apply pressure for systemic reform.
- The EAC and African Union to uphold regional human rights commitments.