Rwanda Case Law

UBUSHINJACYAHA vs NIYONSABA ALIAS KING FIRE N’UNDI.

Court

Court of Appeal

Case number

RPAA00416/2024/CA

The appeal was dismissed because the scientific and testimonial evidence, including DNA analysis and witness statements, conclusively established the appellant's guilt. The appellant's new arguments were raised for the first time on second appeal and lacked evidentiary support. The compensation awarded by lower courts was upheld, with a minor adjustment to legal fees.

Source excerpt

• Sexual offences against minors
• Evidentiary standards
• Appeal procedure
• Compensation for victims

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UBUSHINJACYAHA vs IMANIRANKUNDA

Court

Court of Appeal

Case number

RPAA 00298/2023/CA

The appellate court found that the conviction was supported by corroborated evidence: the accused's confession, the child's statements to her father, witness observations of injuries, and the medical report confirming sexual abuse. The court held that the accused failed to prove coercion or contradiction in the evidence, and that indirect testimony is admissible if properly assessed. The court also held that the civil claimant, not having appealed, could not be awarded more compensation than previously granted, except for additional costs incurred due to being summoned to the appeal.

Source excerpt

• Evidence in criminal cases
• Sexual offences against children
• Appeals procedure
• Compensation for victims

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UBUSHINJACYAHA v. NTAKIRUTIMANA

Court

Supreme Court

Case number

RPA 0197/10/CS

The Supreme Court dismissed Ntakirutimana’s appeal, upholding his conviction and sentence, and finding no denial of the constitutional right to counsel or basis for extra compensation.

• Right to legal representation
• Mitigating circumstances
• Appeal procedure
• Murder
• Armed robbery
• Compensation for victims

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