The case was heard on May 25, 2026, with judgment expected on June 11.
The complainant, Iradukunda Nelly, popularly known as Mignonne, accuses the lawyer of referring to her as “igikuri,” a term she says is discriminatory and insulting in relation to her physical condition.
According to court submissions, the alleged remarks were first made while Me Munyakaragwe was enforcing a court ruling tied to an inheritance dispute involving Iradukunda’s family. Prosecutors told the court that upon arriving at the property in question, the accused allegedly used the term while directing a local security officer to the location.
The prosecution further alleged that the same expression was later repeated publicly during separate court proceedings linked to an auction conducted by the accused that was being challenged over alleged procedural irregularities.
Appearing before the court, Me Munyakaragwe denied ever using the term and argued that no offence had been committed. She asked the court to dismiss the case against her.
Prosecutors, however, requested the court to convict the lawyer of public insult and sentence her to two months in prison along with a fine of Rwf200,000.
In addition, the complainant is seeking Rwf10 million in damages and an additional Rwf1 million to cover legal expenses should the accused be found guilty.
Speaking after the hearing, Iradukunda said the alleged remarks caused her emotional distress and expressed hope that the case would help discourage discriminatory language against persons with disabilities.
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