Judiciary intensifies fight against corruption

By The Inspirer.

The President of the Supreme Court, Donatille Mukantaganzwa, emphasized the importance of addressing corruption within the justice system, stressing that it cannot be fought in others if it is allowed to persist within its own ranks.

She made these remarks on Monday, February 10, 2024, during the opening of the 14th annual anti-corruption week in the judiciary.

Mukantaganzwa highlighted that between 2020 and 2024, the High Council of the Judiciary had sanctioned 14 judicial officers, including judges and court clerks. Currently, two court clerks and one judge are imprisoned for corruption-related offenses.

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) reported that over the past five years, 56 employees were dismissed for involvement in corruption.

RIB Secretary-General, Col. (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga, stated that in addition to investigating corruption within its own ranks, RIB has handled 4,437 corruption-related cases involving 9,272 individuals.

Data from the Rwanda Bar Association (RBA) revealed that last year, eight legal professionals were dismissed for corruption, resulting in their permanent removal from the profession.

The Prosecutor General’s Office also saw six prosecutors suspended last year, who are now under investigation for corruption.

Prosecutor General Angelique Habyarimana acknowledged the challenges of gathering information about corruption, noting that the lack of reports sometimes leaves victims of injustice unheard. She said, “The issue is the scarcity of reports. What we receive is minimal. This is where the role of every Rwandan becomes crucial—especially in identifying misconduct, so justice can be served.”

Habyarimana emphasized that no one is above the law, reiterating that even high-ranking officials are held accountable just like ordinary citizens.

Mukantaganzwa also stressed that the Rwandan government will not tolerate corruption undermining justice and related crimes. She said, “Whether you are a lawyer, a judge, a police officer, an investigator, or a prosecutor, no one will be tolerated if found guilty of corruption.”

She further highlighted that corruption remains a major challenge to delivering fair justice, calling on citizens to actively participate in the fight by reporting misconduct promptly, especially when anyone attempts to exploit the justice system for personal gain.

The 2024 Rwanda Anti-Corruption Index report by Transparency International Rwanda (TI Rwanda) showed a decrease in petty corruption, dropping from 22% in 2023 to 18.5%.

The anti-corruption week aims to raise public awareness, strengthen accountability measures for those within the justice system, and promote a corruption-free environment.

The theme of the week is: “Get rid of corruption in courts and commissioners who deceive you by promising help. Justice cannot be bought.”