The High Council of Kigali has postponed the highly followed case involving opposition figure Ingabire Victoire Umuhoza, nine former members of the unrecognized Dalfa Umurinzi party, and journalist Nsengimana Théoneste of Umubavu TV. The hearing, initially scheduled for July 23, 2025, has now been pushed to September 1, 2025, due to the upcoming judicial recess.
The case, which includes charges such as attempts to overthrow the Rwandan government, inciting public unrest, and forming or joining a criminal group, was delayed to allow more time for further investigation into Ingabire’s role, following a previous court order.
Why the Delay?
Ingabire was not initially part of the ongoing trial against her party members. However, she was summoned to court under Article 106 of the Rwandan Penal Code, which governs the appearance of suspects in court. Her preliminary explanations were found insufficient, prompting the court to instruct the Prosecution to launch a deeper investigation.
Ingabire now faces six serious charges, including:
- Attempting to overthrow the government,
- Disseminating false information intended to damage Rwanda’s image abroad,
- Recruiting or joining a criminal group,
- Conspiracy to commit crimes, including organizing illegal protests.
She had previously denied all charges during a separate hearing in Kicukiro Primary Court and was remanded for 30 days of preventive detention due to credible suspicion of wrongdoing.
The Legal Process Ahead
Before this postponement, the nine other defendants had already presented their defense, and the Prosecution was expected to give its final submissions. The court planned to close the case soon after. But with Ingabire’s formal entry into the trial as a defendant, the proceedings have taken a new turn.
When the trial resumes in September, Ingabire will have the opportunity to:
- Present her defense,
- Submit exculpatory evidence,
- Respond to the Prosecution’s accusations.
Following her defense, the Prosecution will offer its recommendations, and the accused will have the final word before the court deliberates and issues a verdict.
What’s at Stake?
Given the seriousness of the charges, if found guilty, Ingabire and her co-defendants could face life imprisonment under Rwandan law.
