In a letter dated Sunday, May 17, 2026, Nsengiyumva addressed his apology to the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA), BK Pro League, Mukura Victory Sports, the refereeing commission, the Rwanda Referees Association (ARAF), Mbonyamahoro Serieux, and football fans at large.
“I am writing this letter to apologise for the inappropriate behaviour I displayed during the Matchday 29 fixture between Mukura Victory Sports and Rutsiro FC on May 3, 2026, where I committed an unacceptable act during the match,” he wrote.
“I would first like to sincerely apologise to Mukura VS player Mbonyamahoro Serieux, because it is unacceptable for a referee to behave in such a manner. I also apologise to Mukura VS, FERWAFA, BK Pro League, and the refereeing authorities because my conduct projected a bad image,” he added.
Nsengiyumva described the incident as a serious mistake committed in the heat of the moment and assured the public that such behaviour would not happen again.
He further pledged to respect the laws of the game, uphold professionalism, and maintain the discipline expected of match officials.
The FERWAFA Refereeing Commission, which convened on May 4, 2026, found that Nsengiyumva, who was serving as an assistant referee during the match, had displayed conduct inconsistent with the responsibilities of a referee, resulting in a 12-month suspension.
The commission also sanctioned other officials involved in the match. Centre referee Nshimiyimana Rémy Victor was suspended for five matches after being found guilty of wrongly awarding two penalties to Rutsiro FC and failing to effectively control the game.
Mu mukino w’Umunsi wa 29 wa Shampiyona wabereye kuri Stade Kamena, Rutsiro FC yatsinze Mukura ibitego 2-1, byombi byavuye kuri penaliti.
— IGIHE Sports (@IGIHESports) May 3, 2026
Uyu mukino wabayemo agashya, aho umusifuzi w’igitambaro Nsengiyumva Jean Paul nyuma yo gusifura penaliti ya kabiri, yakubise umugeri… pic.twitter.com/yFuLjSnEFQ
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