Rwanda: Judiciary Shake-Up - Two Judges and Court Clerks Permanently Dismissed

Kigali, January 11, 2026 - Kigali, January 2026

The High Council of the Judiciary has taken decisive action against corruption within Rwanda’s courts, permanently dismissing two judges and two court clerks and suspending another judge for six months without pay. These measures, aimed at reinforcing integrity in the judicial system, were announced following a meeting chaired by Chief Justice Mukantaganzwa Domitilla, President of the Supreme Court.

Key Dismissals and Suspensions

Kamanzi Dalaus - former High Court judge

Hategekimana Zozime - former Mukamira Primary Court judge

Murenzi Prosper - former Chief Registrar, Nyakabuye Primary Court

Masengesho Céline - Registrar, Nyarugenge High Court (dismissed for leaving post without cause)

Hamenyimana Télesphore - Judge, Karongi High Court (suspended 6 months without pay for delaying cases and judgments)

All dismissed personnel were accused of corruption-related offences or misconduct affecting judicial integrity.

New Appointments and Reassignments

The council also appointed 15 individuals to key judicial roles to strengthen the system:

Nsengiyumva Jean Claude - President of the High Court, Rusizi Chamber

Giraneza Clémentine - President, Rusizi Intermediate Court

Umubeyeyi Francine - Vice President, Gicumbi Intermediate Court

Byukusenge Marie Claire - Advisor, Office of the Vice President of the Supreme Court

Bandora Jean Baptiste & Murererehe Saouda - Court Inspectors

Several judges and registrars were assigned to high and lower courts across the country, including Nyagatare and Muhoza Primary Courts.

The council also approved the resignation of Mukaburega Marie Claire, formerly a judge at Nyarugenge Primary Court.

These moves underscore Rwanda’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and restoring public trust in its judicial institutions, sending a clear message that corruption and dereliction of duty will not be tolerated.