Rwanda Rejects EU Parliament Interference, Says It Has No Jurisdiction

Kigali, January 29, 2026 - Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe reminded the European Parliament that it has no jurisdiction over Rwanda, stressing that the country will not accept external directives or interference in its judicial affairs. He stated that Rwanda will not tolerate the arrogance and interference of EU lawmakers, particularly regarding cases before Rwandese courts. His remarks followed an EU Parliament statement issued on January 28, after members received Rémy Amahirwa, son of opposition figure Victoire Ingabire, who is currently detained and on trial in Rwanda. The minister emphasized that Rwanda is not an EU member and has been independent from European colonialism for over 60 years. Meanwhile, Justice Minister Emmanuel Ugirashebuja told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on January 21 that Rwanda continues to make progress in human rights, adding that the justice system is functioning transparently. Rwandan authorities also recalled that the Rwandan Parliament previously condemned EU calls for the release of Ingabire and others, reaffirming the country’s sovereignty and judicial independence.

Faits rapportés

Kigali, January 29, 2026 - Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe reminded the European Parliament that it has no jurisdiction over Rwanda, stressing that the country will not accept external directives or interference in its judicial affairs. He stated that Rwanda will not tolerate the arrogance and interference of EU lawmakers, particularly regarding cases before Rwandese courts. His remarks followed an EU Parliament statement issued on January 28, after members received Rémy Amahirwa, son of opposition figure Victoire Ingabire, who is currently detained and on trial in Rwanda. The minister emphasized that Rwanda is not an EU member and has been independent from European colonialism for over 60 years. Meanwhile, Justice Minister Emmanuel Ugirashebuja told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on January 21 that Rwanda continues to make progress in human rights, adding that the justice system is functioning transparently. Rwandan authorities also recalled that the Rwandan Parliament previously condemned EU calls for the release of Ingabire and others, reaffirming the country’s sovereignty and judicial independence.