KABAHIZI Has Been Released Following Our Appeal
Finally, KABAHIZI Jeanine Has Been Released Following Our Appeal
Yesterday, August 18, 2026, we issued an appeal on behalf of Ms. KABAHIZI Jeanine, who was being held at the Busoni Commune detention facility under circumstances that we considered unjust or contrary to the law, following a dispute related to a loan she had obtained from the microfinance institution UCODE.
In our appeal, we pointed out that she was being detained even though she had sold certain assets that were distinct from the properties provided as mortgage security to UCODE. We therefore called for her release and urged the competent authorities to carefully examine the circumstances surrounding her detention.
Our appeal has been heard. According to the information we have received, the competent authorities reportedly ordered the prompt release of Ms. KABAHIZI Jeanine.
As a result, on the evening of August 19, 2026, Ms. KABAHIZI Jeanine was released and was able to return to her home. She was therefore able to spend the evening with her family.
The citizens who had mobilized to call for her release welcome this development. At King Umurundi Freedom, we also welcome her release and are pleased to see her reunited with her family.
We take this opportunity to remind the judicial authorities of the importance of exercising caution and due diligence before taking measures involving the deprivation of a citizen’s liberty. Any decision to detain a person should be grounded in law and taken only after a careful examination of the facts and circumstances of each individual case.
We thank all those who contributed to making this appeal heard and who followed this matter with attention and concern.