Rwanda parliament defies EU call to free Victoire Ingabire

By The Inspirer.

Rwanda’s Parliament has hit back at the European Union (EU) Parliament over its resolution calling for the release of opposition figure Victoire Ingabire, describing it as neo-colonial, contemptuous, and based on misinformation.

In a joint session, lawmakers from both chambers said the EU has no mandate to interfere in Rwanda’s internal affairs or to act as a mouthpiece for those opposed to the government.

“Rwanda is not a weak banana plant that anyone can lean on,” MP Venuste Icyitegetse said. “Demands to release Ingabire are nothing but threats. Rwandans are not intimidated by such threats; we have chosen self-reliance and homegrown solutions.”

Senator Dr. Usta Kayitesi, Chair of the Political Affairs Committee, noted that the resolution relied on “skewed and unfounded information, distorted by politicians and states with deep-seated animosity against Rwanda.”

MP Pie Nizeyimana reminded the EU that “Rwanda is no longer a colony” and stressed that Ingabire “is not above the law,” while MP Pelagie Uwizeye underscored that all citizens—politicians, journalists, and activists alike—are equal before the law.

Christine Mukabunani, leader of the opposition PS-Imberakuri party, also rejected the EU’s stance: “The EU has no mandate to speak on behalf of Rwanda’s opposition. Our country belongs to us, and no outsider should dictate how we govern it.”

Lawmakers further argued that the presidential pardon granted to Ingabire in 2018 was a constitutional prerogative exercised by President Paul Kagame, not a concession to foreign pressure.

Parliament unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the EU’s position and announced it would formally present its response to the European Union institutions, the African Union, the United Nations, and the Government of Rwanda.