A resident named Habimana Damien, who lives in Kamonyi District, has been arrested for providing information about issues in local administrative structures, including the sector level. UMUSEKE reports
This resident lives in Rugalika Sector, Kamonyi District, in the Southern Province.
His wife, Mariya, says that security authorities, including the Rwandan Police, came to arrest him, claiming that he had opened a church at his home, which is prohibited.
Speaking to B&B Kigali FM, Mariya said that for the first time, local authorities visited their home with four guests who had come from Kigali on August 18.
After entering the house, the Village Security Officer immediately called the Sector, reporting that people were gathering at the home for a religious service.
She continued, saying that security forces, including the Police, came from the Sector and, upon entering the home, found them eating. They took photos and videos before leaving.
Damien’s wife, who is being held at the Rukoma Transit Center, further explained that those who took the photos contacted higher authorities to explain what they had seen. They were told that they should be reminded that inviting people home for religious gatherings is not allowed.
Mariya continued, saying that her husband is being punished for being known to provide information about certain illegal activities taking place in Rugalika Sector. This includes illegal construction, which is done with the consent of local authorities, led by the Sector Leader, Nkurunziza Jean de Dieu.
It is reported that on the night of August 24, Habimana Damien was arrested at his home by authorities, including the National Police, who told him he was being charged with having established an unauthorized church at his residence.
Habimana’s wife is calling on national authorities, including the President, to intervene and release her husband, especially since he is being punished for reporting issues, whereas Rwandans are encouraged to report problems in a timely manner.
In a conversation with UMUSEKE, Nkurunziza Jean de Dieu, the Executive Secretary of Rugalika Sector, stated that he is currently on leave and not prepared to discuss work-related issues.
He said, “I don’t know about that issue. Even if I did, I wouldn’t address work-related questions while on leave. I heard about the issue on the radio, but I am not aware of the details. Since I am on leave, I am not informed about the case. You’ll have to wait for me to return or seek information elsewhere.”
Some residents say that if those who report issues continue to be punished in one way or another, it will discourage them from reporting illegal activities, even if they observe such activities occurring.
