Gisagara Resident Seeks Justice for Disabled Daughter in Sexual Abuse Case

As Rwanda continues to strengthen efforts to combat gender-based violence and protect persons with disabilities, some cases still raise concerns among citizens who feel that justice is not delivered in a timely manner. In particular, families of vulnerable individuals say more needs to be done to ensure effective investigations and accountability in cases involving sexual abuse.

Niyonsaba Placidia, a resident of Bwiza Cell in Kansi Sector, Gisagara District, is appealing for justice for her 30-year-old daughter living with a disability, who she says has been subjected to repeated sexual abuse over a prolonged period. According to Placidia, the man she accuses of committing the abuse has not been held accountable, despite several reports made to authorities.

Placidia presented her complaint to the Office of the Ombudsman during a recent outreach visit aimed at listening to citizens’ grievances. She says she has sought assistance from various institutions, but the matter remains unresolved.

In her testimony, Placidia said: “My daughter has endured abuse for a long time. We have reported the case several times, but whenever the suspect is arrested, he is released shortly afterward. I am asking for justice. My daughter needs protection because she lives with a disability and cannot defend herself.”

She added: “It is deeply painful as a mother to see your child repeatedly abused while nothing seems to change. I want the law to protect her just as it protects others.”

The Deputy Ombudsman in charge of preventing and fighting injustice, Yankurije Odette, called on the relevant authorities, especially local leaders, to urgently address the issue. She stated: “Cases like this should never be treated as ordinary matters. Local authorities must work closely with security and judicial institutions to ensure that the truth is established and that due legal process is followed.”

She further emphasized: “Protecting persons with disabilities is everyone’s responsibility. There should be no delays in gathering evidence and ensuring that justice is served.”

On the side of the district administration, the Vice Mayor of Gisagara District in charge of Economic Development, Habineza Jean Paul, acknowledged that authorities are aware of the case but cited a lack of sufficient evidence as the reason for the suspect’s release. He explained: “We are aware of this case and have been following it up. However, so far there has not been concrete evidence that would allow prosecution in court.”

He added: “We encourage citizens to cooperate with investigators and provide timely information so that inquiries can be conducted thoroughly. If sufficient evidence is obtained, the law will take its course.”

Article 16 of Law No. 59/2008 of 10/09/2008 on the prevention and punishment of gender-based violence provides that any person convicted of rape faces imprisonment ranging from ten (10) to fifteen (15) years. If the offense results in physical or psychological illness, the penalty increases to between fifteen (15) and twenty (20) years, in addition to compensation for medical treatment. If the victim suffers an incurable illness or death as a result, the perpetrator is liable to life imprisonment.

In Rwanda, gender-based violence is recognized as a serious criminal offense and a violation of fundamental human rights. The government has established legal frameworks and institutions to prevent and respond to such crimes, including the Office of the Ombudsman, which is mandated to address injustice and maladministration.

Persons with disabilities are considered particularly vulnerable and are entitled to enhanced protection under national and international human rights standards. However, challenges such as limited evidence, social stigma, and barriers to reporting can hinder effective prosecution.

Placidia’s case highlights the broader need for strengthened collaboration among local authorities, law enforcement agencies, and the justice system to ensure that vulnerable individuals are protected and that allegations of sexual abuse are investigated promptly, fairly, and thoroughly.