Rwanda rejects EU call to release Ingabire Victoire

By The Inspirer.

The government of Rwanda has dismissed a resolution by the European Union (EU) Parliament urging the country to release Ingabire Victoire, who is facing charges related to threatening national security.

On Thursday, September 11, 2025, EU lawmakers called on Rwanda to release Ingabire without conditions, despite her facing six charges including forming a criminal group, inciting unrest, undermining state authority, spreading false information and propaganda intended to tarnish Rwanda’s image abroad, disseminating rumors, conspiring to commit crimes against the government, and organizing unauthorized demonstrations.

Members of the EU Parliament argued that the charges appear politically motivated.

Foreign affairs and international cooperation minister amb. Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe responded firmly, stressing that Rwanda is a sovereign state that will not accept colonial-style dictates.

He said: “Let me remind the EU Parliament, if they have forgotten, that Rwanda has been a sovereign and independent country since the end of European colonialism. No amount of colonial-style resolutions can change that reality. Those days are long gone.”

The resolution calling for Ingabire’s release also echoed long-standing criticisms frequently raised by Rwanda’s detractors, including individuals previously linked to attempts to destabilize the country.

Ingabire, who has denied all charges, describes herself as a mother, a Rwandan, and a politician, insisting that she would never wish harm upon her country.

In July, the Kicukiro primary court ordered her remanded for 30 days, ruling that the charges she faces pose a threat to national security. The court stated that if released, she could have the opportunity to pursue her alleged plans, obstruct investigations, or flee justice.

Ingabire was arrested in June by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) following a request from the prosecution to enforce a high council of justice ruling in a case involving Sibomana Sylvain and his co-accused.