UBUSHINJACYAHA v NTIRANDEKURA

UBUSHINJACYAHA v NTIRANDEKURA

The use of a lethal weapon (machete) to strike the victim's head and arm multiple times demonstrated intent to kill, justifying the conviction for attempted murder. The defendant did not unequivocally admit to attempted murder at any stage, and had already received mitigation at the High Court. The cruelty of the...

Source-derived case information.

Citation
RPAA 00258/2024/CA
Parties
Prosecution: Ubushinjacyaha; Defendant: Ntirandekura Josué alias Kaduruvayo
Court
Court of Appeal
Jurisdiction
Rwanda
Judgment Date
20 December 2024
Case Number
RPAA 00258/2024/CA
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Court of Appeal Judgment
Outcome
Appeal dismissed; conviction and sentence affirmed.
Legal Topics
Attempted Murder, Distinction Between Attempted Murder and Assault, Mitigation of Sentence, Acceptance of Guilt, Sentencing Guidelines
Source Language
rw
Criminal Law Attempted Murder Distinction Between Attempted Murder and Assault Mitigation of Sentence Acceptance of Guilt Sentencing Guidelines

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Parties

Ubushinjacyaha

Prosecution

Ntirandekura Josué alias Kaduruvayo

Defendant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Court of Appeal Judgment

  1. 1 Whether the facts support a conviction for attempted murder or for assault and battery
  2. 2 Whether the defendant is entitled to further mitigation of sentence for partial admission of guilt and apology

Ratio Decidendi

The use of a lethal weapon (machete) to strike the victim's head and arm multiple times demonstrated intent to kill, justifying the conviction for attempted murder. The defendant did not unequivocally admit to attempted murder at any stage, and had already received mitigation at the High Court. The cruelty of the act further precluded additional sentence reduction or suspension.

Court Disposition

Appeal dismissed; conviction and sentence affirmed.

Orders

  • The judgment of the High Court (RPA 00038/2022/HC/RSZ) sentencing Ntirandekura to 15 years' imprisonment is upheld.
  • Court costs to be borne by the State.