Status: 03/24/2023 5:49 p.m
In Rwanda, the prison sentence against “Hotel Rwanda” protagonist Rusesabagina, who was convicted of terrorism, has been lifted. According to a government spokeswoman, he should be released on Saturday.
Rwandan government critic Paul Rusesabagina, convicted of terrorism charges, is released from prison. Rwandan government spokeswoman Yolande Makolo announced that Rusesabagina will be released from prison on Saturday. In addition, 18 convicted accomplices are also to be released. The Rwandan Ministry of Justice announced on Friday that President Paul Kagame issued a corresponding order after 68-year-old Rusesabagina appealed for clemency.
“Rwanda notes the constructive role of the US administration in creating conditions for dialogue on this issue, as well as Qatar’s support,” Makolo said. President Kagame said earlier this month talks are underway to resolve the issue. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majid Al-Ansari said the process for Rusesabagina’s transfer was ongoing. From Qatar he will then travel to the United States. This issue had been discussed at the highest level between Qatari and Rwandan officials.
“We are delighted with the news of Paul’s release,” said the 68-year-old’s family, who expressed concern about his health. “The family hopes to see him again soon.”
Rusesabagina gained worldwide fame because, as a manager, he is said to have given shelter to hundreds of Tutsi in his hotel during the 1994 genocide. The events served as a template for the Hollywood film “Hotel Rwanda” in 2004.
Rusesabagina was arrested in early 2020
Rusesabagina, a declared opponent of long-term president and autocrat Kagama, was arrested in August 2020. A year later he was sentenced to a long prison term for alleged terrorist activities. Makolo pointed out that the verdict remained in place despite the release from prison: “There is agreement that serious crimes were committed.”