David Ssengozi, 21, alias Lucky Choice, and Isaiah Ssekagiri, 28, were arraigned in court on Monday, November 11, 2024. Magistrate Stella Maris Amabilis directed that the suspects be detained at Kigo Prison pending their next court appearance on Wednesday.
Police accuse the young men of hate speech and spreading malicious information against the first family and musicians linked to the governing National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The duo denied the charges on Monday.
The prosecution alleges that the suspects committed the offences with 19-year-old Julius Tayebwa, who had previously been brought before court and remanded.
According to the prosecution, the suspects posted information on TikTok intended to “ridicule, degrade, demean, and promote hostility” against the first family and others.
The latest arrests come barely two months after police spokesman Rusoke Kituuma warned that insulting the president, whom he termed the “fountain of honour,” was an offence.
Kituuma issued the warning while commenting on an investigation into a TikToker known as Lucky Choice, who was accused of similar offences, arrested, and later released.
In July, a 24-year-old man was sentenced to six years in prison for insulting the first family through a TikTok video.
Edward Awebwa was charged with hate speech and spreading “misleading and malicious” information against Museveni, First Lady Janet, and Muhoozi, who is the head of the Ugandan army.
Though Awebwa pleaded guilty and asked for forgiveness, the presiding magistrate noted he did not appear remorseful and that the language used in the video was “really vulgar.”
Magistrate Amabilis ruled, “The accused deserves a punishment that will enable him to learn from his past so that next time he will respect the president, the first lady, and the first son.”
Speaking at the launch of the 6th Annual CIMERWA Golf Tournament, set for November 30 at Kigali Golf Club, Kumar clarified that while a few senior positions were streamlined due to overlapping roles, the majority of the workforce has been retained, with new employment opportunities created both directly and indirectly.
Kumar described the decision as necessary to eliminate duplicate roles after the acquisition but stressed that it was not a mass layoff as some reports have suggested. “Most of the staff are still with us, and since taking over Prime Cement, we’ve achieved tremendous growth, a result that wouldn’t be possible without our team,” Kumar noted.
“We absorbed nearly all plant staff from Prime Cement, and only a few senior staff at the head office were let go due to role duplication. It was a tough decision, but we felt it was the best course for the company’s future,” he explained.
Kumar highlighted that CIMERWA has continued to expand its workforce since the acquisition, with the company now employing more than 4,200 people directly and indirectly, including 650 positions created in the local community.
“Our first priority is always for Rwandans, whether in logistics, services, or other business opportunities. This is a core aspect of our growth strategy, with a commitment to local hiring and supporting Rwandan service providers” Kumar said.
In addition to addressing the disparities engulfed in the company’s human resource, Kumar detailed CIMERWA’s recent growth in production operations, with a 200% increase since May, significantly reducing the need for imported cement and supporting Rwanda’s trade balance
“Our export business has shown robust growth, helping the country minimize trade deficits and making Rwanda more self-reliant in meeting its cement needs,” Kumar stated.
Kumar also underscored CIMERWA’s ongoing investment in environmental and community initiatives, including a shift toward sustainable practices within the cement industry. “We’re aware of the environmental impact of cement production and are doing what we can to minimize carbon emissions. Compared to last year, we’ve increased our alternative fuel usage from 15% to over 30%. This shift allows us to reduce emissions while ensuring we continue to meet high-quality standards,” he said.
As the company addresses the ongoing employment adjustments, it also continues to invest in sports development through the CIMERWA Annual Golf Tournament, now in its sixth year.
Eugene Mukabwa, the Vice-Captain of the Kigali Golf Club, highlighted the positive impact of CIMERWA’s sponsorship on the event, which will see over 100 golfers across six categories.
“Thanks to CIMERWA’s support, this tournament has improved year after year. It’s a public event and a great opportunity for golfers of all levels,” Mukabwa said.
CIMERWA’s annual investment of USD150,000 (over 200million Frw) to USD200,000 (over 270million Frw) in the tournament is part of its broader vision for supporting health, wellness, and community engagement in Rwanda.
In a statement released on Wednesday, November 13, the RDF said, “Rwanda Defence Force deeply regrets the tragic incident that occurred in a bar in Rusharara Cell, Karambi Sector of Nyamasheke District, where Sgt Minani Gervais (39 years), allegedly fatally shot five civilians in the early morning hours of 13 November 2024.”
Reports indicate that after the soldier ordered a drink, he attempted to pay the bar owner via Mobile Money. However, the owner refused, insisting on cash payment.
Following an argument reportedly involving many local residents, Sgt. Minani was permitted to go to the military camp to bring cash. He returned in his military uniform, carrying a gun, and allegedly opened fire on the people present.
The RDF also confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and assured the public of necessary legal action against him.
The lawmakers, Matthew Green, a Member of Parliament for Hamilton Centre, and Sarah Jama, a Member of Provincial Parliament for Hamilton Centre, questioned authorities’ contradictory statements regarding the circumstances under which the 43-year-old Rwandan national was fatally shot.
Hamilton Police initially claimed that the deceased had exchanged fire with officers responding to a 911 call near his apartment in Ontario. However, a subsequent statement from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) indicated that it did not appear Kabera had discharged a firearm during the incident.
“His (Kabera’s) death was a violent death at the hands of police, and we join with the community in demanding truth and justice. Reports initially released by the Hamilton Police Service (HPS), which suggested that Erixon had exchanged gunfire with police at the time of his death, have been proven false, according to information from the province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU),” the MPs stated.
“Reports of ‘suspicious activity’ in the area prior to his death also appear to be questionable and racially charged. We agree with the Kabera family that ‘the reversal of crucial facts, a full day after telling the entire world otherwise and painting an image of violence, is deeply outrageous and unnerving,’” the MPs added.
The MPs issued a joint statement after meeting with the devastated family of the deceased on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, to share their condolences.
They accused Hamilton Police of racially targeting Black individuals, asserting that “this is not the first time that Hamilton Police have been directly involved in the serious harming or killing of a Black Hamiltonian.”
“Hamilton Police have also, by their own account, disproportionately used force against members of the Black community during public interactions. Hamilton Police Services must be held accountable for their actions.”
The lawmakers noted that there are many unanswered questions regarding the killing that must be addressed in a timely and transparent manner.
“Why did the Chief of Police allow false information to be released about Erixon carrying a weapon? Why was the Chief so quick to highlight the gun-related injuries of his officers when, according to the SIU report, Erixon did not shoot at police? Why won’t video footage from the hallway where this incident took place be released to the family? Why did Erixon’s family first learn about his death through an online post from HPS? What ‘suspicious activity’ in the neighbourhood led to Erixon’s violent death in his own home? And why won’t the names of the officers involved be released to the public?”
In their quest for justice, the Rwandan community in Canada has organized a vigil to honour Kabera’s life and call for accountability.
The night vigil and march will be held at City Hall on Thursday, November 14, at 6:00 PM.
At the time of his death, Kabera was working as a Resource Officer with the Canada Revenue Agency.
In addition to his job, he was deeply involved in the Rwandan community, serving as Vice President of the Rwandan Community Abroad in Toronto and as an advisor for the Rwandan Canadian Healing Center.
He is survived by his wife and three children, aged 10, 13, and 17.
The send-off ceremony in honor of the Commissioners, Senior, Junior and other ranks, held at the RNP General Headquarters in Kacyiru, was presided over by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Vincent Biruta.
Minister Biruta thanked the retirees for their contribution to national security and development.
“Rwandans thank you for what you have done for the country; “You played a crucial role in building a safer Rwanda that we all enjoy today, and Rwandans thank your sacrifice,” Minister Biruta said.
As they join other Rwandans in their communities, he urged them to continue to set an example, work with them, support local leaders and security organs to sustain what has been achieved.
Minister Biruta took time to also thank their families for their patience, bearing the nature of their work and covering the vacuum in their absence.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) CP Felix Namuhoranye commended the retirees for serving and retiring with respect and integrity.
“You served with a patriotic spirit, sacrificed for the betterment of your country and worked tirelessly to make our it secure and have lasting peace. Your exemplary service and values will always be remembered,” IGP Namuhoranye said.
“You are retiring but you are not tired; the country still needs you in other national duties, and we will continue to work together as always,” he added.
As they start a new life outside active service, IGP Namuhoranye urged them to maintain the patriotic character and dedication they exhibited throughout their service, and to continue to be agents of change wherever they will be.
He also thanked officers, who retired before, for their continued contribution to Rwanda’s development.
Retired Commissioner of Police (CP) Denis Basabose, who spoke on behalf of the retirees, said that this is a great day in their life.
“We are happy and proud of the value and honor we have been given as we start a new chapter outside active service. We thank President Paul Kagame for giving us an opportunity to serve our country,” CP (Rtd) Basabose said.
He pledged commitment to continue striving for a peaceful and safe country, and that they will always be ready to serve in other duties whenever called or required.
The pressure on Welby intensified last week, especially after he initially declined to take full responsibility for not reporting the abuses in both England and Africa back in 2013.
This reluctance fueled public frustration, highlighting concerns over a perceived lack of accountability within the church. By Tuesday, Welby acknowledged his role in the delays.
“It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatizing period between 2013 and 2024,” Welby said in the statement.
“I believe that stepping aside is in the best interests of the Church of England, which I dearly love and which I have been honored to serve,” he added.
Welby’s departure is expected to impact the Anglican Communion globally. While each national branch has its own leadership, the Archbishop of Canterbury is seen as the senior figure among equals in the 85-million-strong global community, which includes the U.S.-based Episcopal Church.
Before this controversy, Welby was already a polarizing figure. A former oil executive turned priest, he became known for his mediation efforts in conflict zones such as Nigeria. Despite his skills in diplomacy, he faced challenges in uniting the Anglican Communion, which has clashed internally over issues like LGBTQ+ rights and women’s roles in church leadership.
The recent resignation follows a damning report by the Makin Review, commissioned by the Church of England to investigate abuse allegations against John Smyth, a prominent lawyer.
Smyth, who died in 2018, was accused of physically, sexually, and psychologically abusing approximately 30 young men and boys in the U.K. and over 80 in Africa from the 1970s onward.
The 251-page report concluded that Welby did not report Smyth to authorities when he was informed in August 2013, shortly after becoming Archbishop. The report suggested that earlier reporting could have prevented further harm to victims.
Welby explained that he had been misinformed about police involvement and, though regretful, accepted responsibility for not ensuring the investigation was pursued as “energetically” as it should have been.
Just a day before his resignation, Welby’s office stated he had chosen to remain in his position, even as he expressed horror over the extent of Smyth’s abuses.
Some church members, including Newcastle’s Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley, deemed his continued leadership “untenable.” Additionally, a petition calling for Welby’s resignation began circulating among members of the General Synod, the national assembly of the Church of England.
The most vocal calls for his resignation came from Smyth’s victims, with Andrew Morse, one of those abused, suggesting that Welby’s stepping down could help begin the process of healing the damage caused by the church’s broader mishandling of historical abuse cases.
This resignation adds to ongoing scrutiny of the Church of England’s historical response to sexual abuse within its ranks.
Slated for December this year, the science and engineering fair will enable students to showcase their STEM innovations and compete with peers in robotics, ICT, 3D printing, game development, coding, electronics, entrepreneurship, and bio-chemistry.
In line with this upcoming competition, a three-day training of trainers (ToT) event was held this week at K-Lab, Kacyiru, and was attended by 21 trainers.
According to [STEMpower Rwanda->https://www.stempower.org/rwanda] Country Director Espoir Serukiza, the ToT will equip the trainers with the necessary skills they need to effectively train students across the country.
“We want to work with our different STEM centers across the country to drive innovation and harness hands-on experience. The purpose of the ToT is to make sure these trainers go back to the STEM centers with the right tools and information they will share with students, and eventually use the skills to solve problems in their respective communities,” he explained.
The significance of the ToT was also highlighted by one of the trainers who said it will improve her training skills.
“The ToT will help me and my fellow trainers to efficiently train students in different STEM fields, as we prepare them for the national science and engineering fair,” said Florence Umutoniwase.
Serukiza appreciated the role being played by the Ohio-based Case Western Reverse University (CWRU) US, one of the best research universities and a partner in the implementation of the project. The university shall provide technical expertise and hands-on training programs in Biochemistry (Chemical micro factory).
“We are grateful to Case Western Reverse University for their continued contribution of knowledge and experience in STEM fields to enrich the training sessions and provide valuable insights to both trainers and students,” he stressed.
After the ToT, the trainers will go ahead to train hundreds of high school students at Ines Ruhengeri, Kibogora Polytechnic, and Gitwe Adventist College STEM centers, three of the nine [STEM Centers established by STEMpower in Rwanda->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/how-stempower-is-promoting-science-based-knowledge-in-rwanda].
Meanwhile, speaking on the upcoming science and engineering fair, Karlene Noel Jennings, Regional Public Engagement Specialist for Central Africa at the US Embassy, commended the partnership with STEMpower, noting that the program will positively impact many students.
“This partnership is truly a wonderful opportunity to look at reaching new audiences, especially young women and girls, and encourage their interest in science,” she said.
She added: “I have true appreciation for the work of encouraging the next generation to collaborate and look at problems creatively, as we try and solve them for the betterment of world.”
It is expected that at least 70% of students who will participate in the program will be young women, in a bid to encourage them to pursue STEM education and careers.
Marissa J Polnerow, Deputy Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy, also noted that through the partnership between STEMpower and the US Embassy, shared goals are being advanced.
“The diversity of STEM and technology fields is remarkable, from life-changing medical devices to global educational platforms like Khan Academy. I’m inspired by your commitment to use your knowledge for social good and encourage you to think big and impact not just Rwanda but the world. Congratulations on your achievements and vision, it’s an honor to support and be a part of this,” she said.
Besides Rwanda, there are other science fairs planned in other countries where the organization has presence. A case in point is the 9th annual Ethiopian National Science Fair slated for next week, two weeks after the end of the second science fair in South Sudan.
These competitions provide students with the opportunity to showcase their creativity, problem-solving skills, and innovative ideas.
So far, STEMpower has established 125 STEM centres in different countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, which are among other things helping bridge the digital divide.
According to an RCS statement released on November 11, 2024, these dismissals were confirmed by Cabinet Meeting resolutions from November 9, 2024.
The primary reasons cited include professional misconduct such as indiscipline, corruption, and other offenses.
The RCS highlighted that these actions align with its commitment to uphold high standards and values within the service.
In a similar move earlier in May 2024, judicial authorities had investigated over 135 prison officers for various offenses.
Of these, 20 were promptly reinstated, while others were referred to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau, with several recommended for permanent dismissal from their roles.
The Commission declared ruling Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo the winner, with 70.67% of the votes, while Mondlane, representing Podemos, received 20.32%. Mondlane subsequently alleged electoral fraud, fueling public outrage.
The Rwandan community in Maputo was urged to take precautions due to concerns that protesters might target them. Social media rumors suggested that Rwandan forces stationed in Cabo Delgado had been deployed to Maputo to control the demonstrations. However, Rwanda refuted these claims.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, recently announced that the Rwandan Embassy in Maputo would close on November 6 and 7, advising Rwandans to remain at home.
Jean Damascène Iyamuremye, the Deputy President of the Rwandan Community in Mozambique, spoke with IGIHE about the impact of the protests on the Rwandan community and their current situation following the third phase of demonstrations, which ended on November 7, 2024.
Iyamuremye clarified that relations between Rwandans and Mozambicans are generally positive, dismissing the rumors of Rwandan forces’ involvement in Maputo as attempts by opportunists seeking to incite unrest and target Rwandan-owned businesses for looting.
“There is no real conflict between Rwandans and Mozambicans; we coexist peacefully. Those spreading rumors are opportunists aiming to justify looting by sowing divisions,” he stated. “The Mozambican government, in collaboration with security agencies, has condemned such actions.”
The protests, however, have disrupted local businesses, including those owned by Rwandans selling food and beverages. According to Iyamuremye, looters have specifically targeted these businesses during chaotic episodes.
“Some protesters break into shops looking for food and beverages. Many shop owners have suffered substantial losses due to looting, and others fear they might be next, with no end to the unrest in sight.”
Human Rights Watch reported that as of November 7, the protests had resulted in up to 30 deaths, including three fatalities and 66 injuries on November 6 alone.
Iyamuremye reported that two Rwandans were injured during the protests. One was struck by a rock while assisting a friend whose shop was being looted, and the other was beaten by protesters after refusing to join them, as he was focused on carrying his goods.
He emphasized that these injuries were not due to the victims’ nationality but rather were general acts of violence amid the unrest. Both individuals are now recovering well.
On November 11, Mondlane announced that a fourth phase of protests would take place from Wednesday to Friday, promising a more intense demonstration.
Iyamuremye advised Rwandans in Mozambique to heed guidance from local authorities and Rwandan representatives, staying home until further notice or an assurance of restored safety.
Meanwhile, Mondlane has taken his grievance to the Constitutional Court, requesting the annulment of the election results.
The Mozambican government has urged him to wait for the court’s decision, but he remains defiant in his call for protests.
