Trial of Sheikh Bahame Hassan Continues in Closed Session

Nyamata, Bugesera District - 8 January 2026: The Nyamata Primary Court has ordered that the trial of Sheikh Bahame Hassan, Coordinator of the Gitagata Ngororamuco Center, suspected of sexually abusing some beneficiaries of the center, continue behind closed doors. Bahame was arrested on 16 December 2025 following a multi-day investigation into allegations that he exploited female victims at the center for sexual purposes, under the pretense of helping them or connecting them with families. The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) charged him with abusing his legal authority for personal gain and soliciting or performing sexual acts. The hearing on detention and provisional release, initially scheduled for 6 January 2026, was postponed to 8 January after the Prosecution presented evidence of its participation in the investigation. During the hearing, Bahame’s lawyer, Me Nyembo Emeline, requested that the trial continue in camera due to the sensitive nature of the case. The court granted this request, clearing the courtroom while proceedings continued. Although the trial is being held privately, the judgment will be read publicly, in accordance with Rwandan criminal law. The court’s decision is expected to be announced on 13 January 2026. The investigation revealed that Bahame allegedly provided illegal benefits to individuals for personal sexual gratification. Under Article 6 of Rwanda’s Anti-Corruption Law, soliciting, accepting, or promising sexual favors for personal or unlawful gain is a punishable offense, carrying prison terms from 5 to 10 years and fines ranging from 1,000,000 to 10,000,000 Rwf, depending on the nature of the offense. Sheikh Bahame Hassan was appointed Director of the Gitagata Cultural Center in 2021 and previously gained public recognition while leading the Rubavu District. The RIB continues its investigation into his alleged crimes.