Rwandan journalist Glory Iribagiza has publicly appealed to Paul Kagame over what she describes as dissatisfaction with the handling of her sexual assault complaint by justice institutions.
In a lengthy letter dated May 13, 2026, Iribagiza, who works for The New Times, said she reported the alleged assault in September 2025 at the Rwanda Investigation Bureau Isange One Stop Center in Kacyiru.
She stated that although she underwent medical examinations and received psychosocial support, she was unhappy with how she was treated by some officials and with the pace of the investigation. According to her account, she repeatedly sought updates on the case but received limited information.
Iribagiza also said she requested the suspect be detained to prevent possible escape, but that did not happen immediately. She later contacted the Office of the President and copied Imbuto Foundation in her correspondence, though she remained unsatisfied with the responses she received.
According to her statement, the suspect was eventually arrested and detained before later being released under circumstances she said were not fully explained to her.
Following public discussion of the matter, Rwanda Investigation Bureau issued a statement confirming that investigations had been conducted, the suspect arrested, and the case file submitted to prosecution authorities while the suspect was still in custody. RIB added that prosecutors later brought the suspect before court, where the individual was released based on medical examination findings presented in the case.
The case has sparked debate online, with some social media users expressing solidarity with Iribagiza and calling for timely justice, while others argued that all allegations must be handled carefully to avoid wrongful accusations.
