UBUSHINJACYAHA v. MURWANASHYAKA

UBUSHINJACYAHA v. MURWANASHYAKA

Due to the minimal quantity of cannabis (two plants) and lack of evidence of intent to distribute, the offence is reclassified from cultivation to possession, warranting a reduced sentence under the relevant statute.

Source-derived case information.

Citation
RPAA 00502/2025/CA
Parties
Prosecution: Ubushinjacyaha; Applicant: Murwanashyaka Viateur
Court
Court of Appeal
Jurisdiction
Rwanda
Judgment Date
27 November 2025
Case Number
RPAA 00502/2025/CA
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Final Appellate Judgment
Outcome
appeal allowed; conviction reclassified; sentence reduced
Legal Topics
Drug Offences, Drug Possession, Drug Cultivation, Sentencing, Appeal Procedure
Source Language
rw
Criminal Law Drug Offences Drug Possession Drug Cultivation Sentencing Appeal Procedure

Source-derived case record

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

More case intelligence is available

Unlock the full research layer for this judgment.

Legal principles 2 Authorities cited 6 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 1
Sign in to unlock

Parties

Ubushinjacyaha

Prosecution

Murwanashyaka Viateur

Applicant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Final Appellate Judgment

  1. 1 Whether the offence should be classified as drug possession or drug cultivation
  2. 2 Whether the applicant is entitled to a reduced sentence

Ratio Decidendi

Due to the minimal quantity of cannabis (two plants) and lack of evidence of intent to distribute, the offence is reclassified from cultivation to possession, warranting a reduced sentence under the relevant statute.

Court Disposition

appeal allowed; conviction reclassified; sentence reduced

Orders

  • Conviction reclassified to drug possession
  • Applicant sentenced to two years imprisonment