Rwanda has a strong reputation for promoting women’s rights and protecting families, but this commitment is not extended to government critics. The Constitution of Rwanda establishes the state’s responsibility to create conditions for families to thrive, and policies have been developed to eradicate gender-based violence and protect women and children. However, these ideals are not applied to political dissidents like the author.
The author founded a political party, The United Democratic Forces of Rwanda (FDU-Inkingi), after witnessing the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Despite returning to Rwanda in 2010 to engage in political activities, they have faced numerous restrictions, including being denied the right to travel to see family members for important events. The author’s criticism of the government led to their arrest in 2010 on fabricated charges, resulting in a 15-year sentence.
After taking their case to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the author was eventually released from prison in 2018, but faced a smear campaign on social media and continued restrictions on their civil rights. Requests to visit family members in the Netherlands have been ignored, leading to missed family milestones and a heartbreaking separation from loved ones.
Despite being granted a presidential pardon in 2018, the author remains barred from participating in Rwanda’s elections, including the upcoming presidential election in July 2024. This denial of political rights and continued violations of human rights, including the right to a family life, go against Rwanda’s commitments under the East African Community Treaty.
The author has filed a case before the East African Court of Justice to challenge the injustices they have faced and to seek interim measures allowing them to participate in the upcoming elections. This legal action aims to not only secure the author’s rights but also to advocate for the rights of all individuals who have been similarly victimized. The author hopes for a resolution that will allow them to celebrate future Global Day of Parents surrounded by their children.
