Having already served time in detention, the remainder of his sentence will be carried out under house arrest with electronic surveillance. The verdict aligns with the prosecution’s request. His legal representative indicated that an appeal is likely.
“He is in a state of shock. From the outset, he has maintained his innocence. They did not take into account the fact that he has been manipulated, the fact that he has been forced to do things beyond his control,” stated lawyer Mbeko Tabula.
The trial proceeded without the presence of Paul, who is now out of contract and searching for a new club.
The judge instructed Mathias and five other men to face trial following an investigation into whether Paul was subjected to extortion by Mathias and childhood friends in 2022.
Last month, Mathias was put on trial “for the offences of attempted extortion and criminal conspiracy.” The five co-defendants demanded 13million euros (£10.7m) from the 31-year-old France player, who was confronted at gunpoint by masked men in March 2022.
The defendants persistently intimidated Paul, asserting that he should have supported them after his rise to international football stardom. They were charged with extortion, abduction and confinement to facilitate a crime, as well as criminal conspiracy.
Roushdane K., the alleged mastermind behind the blackmail, has been handed an eight-year prison sentence. The other defendants also received jail terms.
Court documents reveal that Paul suffered financial losses amounting to 197,000 euros (£164,000) and emotional distress valued at 50,000 euros (£41,000).
All defendants, excluding Mathias, were ordered to collectively pay this sum to the ex-Juventus player. During the investigation, Paul admitted to paying 100,000 euros (£83,000) to the organized group, which included his own brother.
In response to Muhoozi’s latest remarks, Opondo has questioned the legitimacy of the general’s words. “So, being a buffoon, proven or otherwise, is now an offence?” Opondo responded challenging Muhoozi to provide specifics on his allegations.
“If you have serious allegations, General Muhoozi, be specific. Who is the fool you are talking about, and what have they done?” Opondo’s sharp response underscored the growing rift within Uganda’s leadership, as Muhoozi’s critics, including Opondo, accused him of undermining military cohesion and creating unnecessary divisions.
Opondo further argued that public name-calling does nothing to resolve internal disputes and only exacerbates tensions. “We have institutions to handle disputes. Calling someone a fool or a buffoon in public does not solve anything. It only creates more division and confusion,” he said.
This comment highlighted the deepening divide between those who support Muhoozi’s outspoken nature and those who view his remarks as harmful to Uganda’s stability and diplomatic relations.
Meanwhile, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi has said that Muhoozi’s posts are not the official position of government of Uganda.
“Regarding the comments attributed to general Muhoozi, the CDF, on DRC and Sudan, those are comments made on social media, casually, privately, and not the official position of UPDF or Ministry of Defense or government of Uganda,” Baryomunsi said.
He urged the public and the international community to treat Muhoozi’s tweets as casual comments.
“They should be treated as casual comments, if at all he made them, and therefore there should be no anxiety at all about those comments, both within the country and even our friends outside Uganda. So, they shouldn’t be treated as an official position of the government of Uganda,” Baryomunsi said.
Muhoozi, the son of President Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni, has once again found himself at the center of controversy, this time for his inflammatory tweets about Sudan, the DRC and internal military circles.
Muhoozi’s initial remarks about Sudan, in which he threatened to invade the country with the support of the United States, quickly sparked outrage both locally and internationally.
The Sudanese government has since called on the African Union, regional and international organizations, and the entire international community to condemn Muhoozi’s statements, which it said, pose a threat to regional and international peace and security.
Another post where Muhoozi threatens to wipeout all white mercenaries operating in eastern DRC prompted he Congolese government reacted by summoning Uganda’s Acting Chargé d’Affaires, Matata Twaha Magara to get clarification on the official position of government of Uganda.
Although Muhoozi did not single out a mercenary group, it is widely believed that he was referring to foreign operatives associated with Bulgaria’s Agemira group and Romania’s RALF, who have been assisting the Congolese national army (FARDC) in its fight against M23 rebels since 2022.
The Congolese government has repeatedly stated that these individuals are not mercenaries but trainers working to strengthen the FARDC’s capacity in modern warfare and safeguarding strategic locations like Goma and Sake.
Critics have argued that Muhoozi’s inflammatory statements could be part of a broader political strategy, suggesting he is being used as a scapegoat by powerful figures within the Ugandan government.
Just days after the Sudan debacle, Muhoozi stirred internal unrest by targeting his fellow military officers, including Lt. Gen. Peter Elweru, whom he publicly called a “buffoon” while accusing him of incompetence.
This sparked a firestorm of debate, with many Ugandans questioning whether such remarks were appropriate from a senior figure in the military and political scene. Muhoozi’s critics suggested that his outbursts were intentionally encouraged to draw attention away from larger issues.
Muhoozi’s actions come at a time when his political ambitions are under close scrutiny. His critics believe that these outbursts may be part of a broader strategy to bolster his profile ahead of any future political ambitions, while others argue that he is being manipulated as a scapegoat for political maneuvering within the government.
While he has since deleted many of his inflammatory tweets, the diplomatic and internal fallout looms. Uganda’s international relations, particularly with neighboring Sudan and DRC remain in jeopardy, and the tensions within the Ugandan military and political circles show no signs of easing.
As the fallout unfolds, many are left wondering whether Muhoozi’s controversial remarks will continue to shape the country’s political landscape or whether Uganda’s leadership will regain control of the narrative.
Speaking to Imvaho Nshya, RCS Spokesperson CSP Thérèse Kubwimana addressed accusations raised in an October 2024 Human Rights Watch report. The report alleged cases of torture and unlawful detentions, including claims from a detainee at Rubavu Prison who reported being subjected to beatings and electric shocks.
Kubwimana firmly denied these allegations, emphasizing that RCS does not condone such acts and whenever committed, these are personal choices and not directives from RCS or the government.
“No leader assigns duties that include torturing others. Those found guilty of such actions are held accountable in courts of law,” she stated,
She criticized the tendency to generalize individual misconduct as institutional failure and expressed disappointment over narratives portraying correctional facilities negatively without verified information.
“It is deeply troubling because those making these claims have never visited our facilities to see for themselves. I can confidently say our prisons provide good living conditions, contrary to these allegations,” she said.
Highlighting the credibility of RCS, Kubwimana pointed out that its personnel are entrusted with responsibilities in United Nations peacekeeping missions in Sudan and the Central African Republic, where they work alongside Rwanda’s army and police forces.
“A country accused of systemic torture would not be selected to provide peacekeepers who promote human rights and dignity,” she noted.
RCS continues to improve inmate welfare through programs like farming and livestock management, which contribute to dietary needs within facilities. Vulnerable prisoners and children in custody benefit from milk produced by RCS-owned cows, reflecting a positive commitment to humane incarceration.
Meanwhile, the government is taking further steps to enhance reintegration for inmates nearing the end of their sentences. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Minister of Justice and Attorney General recently announced the establishment of Rwanda’s first social reintegration center, set to open in February 2025 in Rwamagana District.
The facility, commonly referred to as a halfway home, will initially accommodate 250 female inmates, allowing them to transition back into society by engaging in day-to-day activities outside the center while returning in the evenings. This initiative is aimed at reducing recidivism and supporting a smooth reintegration process.
Ugirashebuja shared that the halfway home will also offer civic education and vocational training. If successful, the program will be expanded to other regions in the country.
With these measures, Rwanda demonstrates its dedication to balancing accountability, rehabilitation, and reintegration for a fair and humane correctional system.
The community outreach, led by members of the Parliamentary Forum on the Prevention and Denial of the Genocide Against the Tutsi (AGPF), focused on five districts that had been identified as areas where Genocide ideology and acts of violence against survivors had been prevalent.
These districts are Nyaruguru, Ngoma, Karongi, Rusizi, and Ruhango. The goal of the initiative is to encourage local communities to stand united against division and to actively support the principles of unity and reconciliation.
Senator Prof. Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu, the Forum President explained to IGIHE that the visits were aimed at raising awareness and building local capacity to prevent the recurrence of genocide ideology.
“We are not only sending a message of support and comfort to the survivors but also urging the people to hold fast to the values that promote unity and equality among Rwandans. We must ensure that the progress we’ve made in promoting unity and peace in Rwanda is not reversed,” he said.
The forum’s members engaged in discussions with local leaders, youth, women, and survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to outline strategies for addressing and eliminating any remnants of divisive rhetoric or actions.
These efforts are supported by educational campaigns and clear calls for unity, stressing that any attempt to create divisions or diminish Rwanda’s progress toward peace must be resisted.
Prof. Dusingizemungu emphasized that the parliament’s actions are a direct response to the recent incidents of violence linked to genocide ideology.
“We are sending a clear message that these acts will not be tolerated. Our objective is to make sure that such destructive ideologies are rooted out from society and that every Rwandan feels secure and respected,” he asserted.
Going forward AGPF plans to continue its outreach in all districts. In early 2025, the forum will expand its efforts by targeting youth in different age groups, teaching them the dangers of genocide ideology and reinforcing the importance of unity and national development.
This initiative is part of Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that the horrors of the past are never repeated.
Speaking at his annual news conference on Thursday, Putin said, “If someone takes part in the election and gains legitimacy, we are ready to talk to him, including Volodymyr Zelensky.”
Putin’s remarks signal an openness to dialogue, but he emphasized that such talks would take into account the evolving situation on the ground, referencing the Istanbul agreements as a potential framework for discussions.
These agreements were initially brokered in March 2022 during peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, although they ultimately failed to bring about a ceasefire.
The war in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022, has caused widespread destruction, with tens of thousands of casualties and millions displaced.
The conflict, rooted in long-standing tensions between the two countries, has escalated into a brutal war, marked by fierce battles, significant international sanctions on Russia, and ongoing geopolitical ramifications.
The recent comments from Putin come amidst increasing global pressure for a peaceful resolution and a series of military setbacks for Russian forces, which have prompted discussions about potential negotiations.
However, given the entrenched positions on both sides and the complexities of the conflict, prospects for meaningful peace talks remain uncertain. Ukraine is scheduled to hold its next presidential elections in March 2024, despite the ongoing conflict.
The team retained this spot from the previous rankings released in November 2024, following their strong showing in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification matches.
Rwanda’s ranking remains unchanged, holding steady at 1136.06 points.
On the global stage, Argentina remains in the top spot, followed by France, with England and Brazil completing the top four.
In Africa, the leading teams are Morocco (14th), Senegal (17th), Egypt (33rd), Algeria (37th), and Nigeria (44th).
Among Rwanda’s neighboring countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo is ranked 61st, Uganda 88th, Tanzania 106th, Kenya 108th, and Burundi sits in 139th place.
Liberia saw the biggest improvement, gaining 34.47 points and climbing to 142nd place. In contrast, Equatorial Guinea lost 47.53 points, dropping 10 positions to 89th.
Last month, Hong Kong experienced a notable rise in the rankings, largely due to victories over Mongolia and Chinese Taipei, despite a lack of international matches for national teams.
He was speaking on December 19, 2024, at the opening ceremony of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF)’s 33rd Policy Organs meeting running from 16 to 21 December 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda.
“We must continue working together across political, security, development, and humanitarian pillars, deepening our partnerships as member states, regional economic communities, mechanisms, and our umbrella organisation, the African Union, to effectively contribute to peace, security, and stability,” Marizamunda said.
The Minister further urged EASF member states to enhance their response systems, adapt them to tackle existing challenges, and fully utilise their resources to foster peace and security across the region and the continent.
The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Chiefs of Defence who joined the Experts Working Group at the meeting, reaffirmed their commitment to member states’ pledges and acknowledged the valuable suggestions and recommendations provided by the experts during three days of deliberations.
Speaking on behalf of the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CDS) of the EASF, General MK Mubarakh, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, assured that the EASF Chiefs of Defence Staff remain committed to providing crucial guidance to improve the force’s operational readiness.
Brig Gen (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, the EASF Director, commended the Experts Working Group for their exchange of ideas and productive recommendations, which will significantly contribute to maintaining EASF’s readiness and enhancing conflict prevention efforts.
The 33rd Policy Organs Meeting (POM) coincides with EASF’s 20th anniversary, celebrated under the theme “Two Decades of Commitment to Promote Regional Peace and Security.”
The organisation, now operational under the African Union’s umbrella, comprises ten member states.
The first phase of the centre, currently under construction in Rwamagana District, is almost complete. Initially, it will accommodate up to 250 female inmates.
Dr. Ugirashebuja shared the update at the Annual Conference and General Meeting of the Rwanda Bar Association (RBA) on December 19, 2024.
“The first phase is nearly finished, and we plan to begin operations by hosting up to 250 female inmates in February 2025,” he said. “If successful, we intend to expand the program to other areas across the country.”
The halfway home will provide inmates with the opportunity to reintegrate into society before their full release.
Dr. Ugirashebuja explained that the program will allow inmates nearing the end of their sentences to live at the centre, where they can go out during the day and return in the evening. This will help them adapt to life outside of prison.
“Inmates will start adjusting to life outside of prison and learn how to successfully reintegrate into society,” he explained. “This gradual reintroduction will help reduce recidivism.”
The centre will offer a range of programs, including civic education and vocational skills training to help inmates live independently after their release.
Families will also be allowed to visit their loved ones, supporting their reintegration into Rwandan society.
Dr. Ugirashebuja also emphasized the importance of lawyers in promoting alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice practices.
IGIHE has learned that both parties involved in organizing the concert decided to postpone the event to a yet-to-be-announced date due to the artist’s health condition, which prevents him from performing in Kigali as planned.
The ‘Valu Valu’ hitmaker was scheduled to perform at Kigali Universe, and preparations for the event were underway before it was confirmed on December 12, 2024, that the artist had fallen ill and was receiving medical care at Nakasero Hospital.
Following widespread reports of his illness, Chameleone’s son disclosed that it was linked to excessive alcohol consumption. Doctors have warned that unless the artist significantly reduces his drinking, his chances of surviving beyond the next two years are slim.
Recent updates indicate that Jose Chameleone will be transferred to the United States for advanced medical treatment, as his condition requires specialized care not available in Uganda.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry emphasized this message in a recent interview with IGIHE.
The warning follows a disturbing incident where a student was severely assaulted after days of harassment at a house party in Kicukiro District.
RIB’s investigation revealed that the assault took place in a house rented by the perpetrators. Authorities arrested several individuals aged between 19 and 24 in connection with the crime.
Dr. Murangira warned that such events often lead to criminal activities, including child abuse, drug use, assault, theft, and public disturbance. He urged property owners to be vigilant and avoid renting their properties for “House Parties” to prevent the escalation of such incidents.
Landlords who fail to heed this warning may face legal consequences for aiding and abetting criminal activities.
