Speaking to Imvaho Nshya, RCS Spokesperson CSP Thérèse Kubwimana addressed accusations raised in an October 2024 Human Rights Watch report. The report alleged cases of torture and unlawful detentions, including claims from a detainee at Rubavu Prison who reported being subjected to beatings and electric shocks.

Kubwimana firmly denied these allegations, emphasizing that RCS does not condone such acts and whenever committed, these are personal choices and not directives from RCS or the government.

“No leader assigns duties that include torturing others. Those found guilty of such actions are held accountable in courts of law,” she stated,

She criticized the tendency to generalize individual misconduct as institutional failure and expressed disappointment over narratives portraying correctional facilities negatively without verified information.

“It is deeply troubling because those making these claims have never visited our facilities to see for themselves. I can confidently say our prisons provide good living conditions, contrary to these allegations,” she said.

Highlighting the credibility of RCS, Kubwimana pointed out that its personnel are entrusted with responsibilities in United Nations peacekeeping missions in Sudan and the Central African Republic, where they work alongside Rwanda’s army and police forces.

“A country accused of systemic torture would not be selected to provide peacekeepers who promote human rights and dignity,” she noted.

RCS continues to improve inmate welfare through programs like farming and livestock management, which contribute to dietary needs within facilities. Vulnerable prisoners and children in custody benefit from milk produced by RCS-owned cows, reflecting a positive commitment to humane incarceration.

Meanwhile, the government is taking further steps to enhance reintegration for inmates nearing the end of their sentences. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Minister of Justice and Attorney General recently announced the establishment of Rwanda’s first social reintegration center, set to open in February 2025 in Rwamagana District.

The facility, commonly referred to as a halfway home, will initially accommodate 250 female inmates, allowing them to transition back into society by engaging in day-to-day activities outside the center while returning in the evenings. This initiative is aimed at reducing recidivism and supporting a smooth reintegration process.

Ugirashebuja shared that the halfway home will also offer civic education and vocational training. If successful, the program will be expanded to other regions in the country.

With these measures, Rwanda demonstrates its dedication to balancing accountability, rehabilitation, and reintegration for a fair and humane correctional system.

CPS Therese Kubwimana says that RCS does not condone acts of torture or indiscipline.