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The Head of State made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Chief Justice, Domitilla Mukantaganzwa, and Deputy Chief Justice, Alphonse Hitiyaremye.

'Hoarding and misusing public resources that should serve the interests of Rwandans must end, and there is no better way to stop this than through justice,' President Kagame emphasized.

'I believe that if the laws and justice system we have are properly implemented, they can help us address these issues. […] We still have a long way to go but we are determined to get there, and as quickly as possible,' he added.

The President also acknowledged that the country’s setbacks stem from poor practices, stating, 'If we unite to fight them, we can put an end to them, and our country will progress.'

The President reflected on Rwanda’s painful history of injustice, much of it shaped by divisive political dynamics that led to the loss of many lives.

Rwanda’s experienced dark past where over a million people were killed 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This genocide resulted from decades of oppression and divisive politics, forcing many Rwandans into exile.

However, 30 years after the Genocide, Rwanda has risen from the ashes, transforming into a prosperous and resilient nation that serves as a beacon of hope and a role model for many countries worldwide.

Despite these remarkable strides, there are still individuals who harbor genocidal ideologies and continue to spread hate, and there have been reports of survivors of the Genocide being targeted and killed.

President Kagame emphasized that the path forward must be guided by the strict application of justice and the rule of law.

'There should be no substitute for justice, but where justice fails, other actions must follow,' he warned, reinforcing that the law must be the ultimate guide.

He also addressed those who continue to undermine the country’s progress, stressing the need for a collective effort to maintain peace and stability.

'There are still people who want to take us back to the past,' Kagame said, urging that those who attempt to reverse Rwanda’s progress be held accountable through justice.

The President called on leaders, especially in the judiciary, to continue building on the country’s achievements and to take further steps toward creating a more just and prosperous Rwanda.

After taking the oath of office, Mukantaganzwa thanked President Kagame for the trust placed in her and pledged to diligently fulfill her duties, working towards delivering fair and timely justice to Rwandans.

She reflected on the judicial reforms implemented after the Genocide against the Tutsi and emphasized the need for further improvements to ensure more efficient services.

Mukantaganzwa also vowed to build on the achievements of her predecessors, consolidate gains, and promote accountability and integrity as core values to uphold.

The President has called on leaders, especially in the judiciary, to continue building on the country’s achievements and to take further steps toward creating a more just and prosperous Rwanda.

After taking the oath of office, Mukantaganzwa pledged to diligently fulfill her duties, working towards delivering fair and timely justice to Rwandans

Deputy Chief Justice, Alphonse Hitiyaremye was also sworn-in on Thursday.

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Museveni’s remarks come amid heated debates surrounding the ongoing trial of opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his associate, Obeid Lutale, in the Makindye-based General Court Martial.

President Museveni, in a detailed statement on Thursday, December 12, 2024, praised the role of the Court Martial system, referring to it as “eyokyeero,” a Runyankore term meaning reinforcement.

He attributed the establishment of military trials for civilians to the increasing activities of criminals and terrorists who have wielded weapons indiscriminately to harm Ugandans.

President Yoweri Museveni’s remarks come amid heated debates surrounding the ongoing trial of opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his associate, Obeid Lutale, in the Makindye-based General Court Martial.

Museveni argued that the civilian court system, overwhelmed with a backlog of cases including murders, assaults, and land disputes, could not efficiently handle gun-related crimes.

“For stabilization, you need speed,” Museveni argued, adding that military courts provide the necessary swiftness and decisiveness to deal with armed offenders.

He stressed that such offenders, though civilians, become “soldiers” in a sense by taking up arms and should therefore face the jurisdiction of the Court Martial, which is specifically designed to handle cases involving weapons.

The president’s comments were a direct response to legal and public criticism, particularly from opposition voices, about the legality and morality of trying civilians in military courts.

Lawyers for Besigye and Lutale have described the Court Martial proceedings as illegitimate, with lead counsel Erias Lukwago labeling it a “kangaroo court.”

Besigye’s lawyers addressing journalists in Kampala, Uganda.

Besigye, a retired army officer turned opposition leader, has long been a thorn in Museveni’s side, having run against him in four contested presidential elections.

Besigye and Lutale were recently charged with endangering national security and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Their detention followed their controversial abduction by Ugandan intelligence agents in Nairobi, Kenya, last November.

Despite protests, the two remain in custody, with their case adjourned until January 7, 2025.

Critics, including Besigye’s legal team, have argued that Ugandan law does not permit civilians to be tried in military courts, making their trial unconstitutional. They have refused to apply for bail, maintaining their stance against the court’s legitimacy.

However, Museveni defended the practice, stating that the military court system operates as a subordinate to civilian courts, with opportunities for appeal and oversight to rectify any miscarriages of justice.

“If the Court Martial judges badly, the superior courts will rectify the issue,” Museveni stated.

He also argued that military trials provide a pragmatic solution to keeping dangerous individuals off the streets.

Citing his recent tour of Karamoja, Museveni pointed to the effectiveness of military courts in addressing crime in the region. He noted that over 900 Karamojong youth, detained for gun-related crimes, were being processed by military tribunals.

The president credited this approach for the restoration of peace in the region, contrasting it with what he termed as the inefficiency of civilian courts where offenders are often “granted bail or kept on remand endlessly where they form part of the backlog of the general court system.”

Museveni proposed a referendum in districts like Karamoja to gauge public support for the military court’s jurisdiction over civilians, expressing confidence that such a measure would receive overwhelming approval.

The Besigye case, however, remains a lightning rod for dissent, with opposition leaders and activists accusing the government of weaponizing military courts to suppress political opponents.

President Yoweri Museveni has praised the role of the Court Martial system, referring to it as “eyokyeero,” a Runyankore term meaning reinforcement.

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He explained that the change comes after it was observed that some students were graduating without sufficient knowledge, while others lacked opportunities to pursue studies at international universities.

According to him, the decision was made after receiving complaints from employers about the quality of education, as some graduates lacked essential skills.

“Students and employers continued to tell us that the three-year program left students without fundamental knowledge. While we tried to adopt a model similar to that of universities in neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya, where undergraduate programs are three years long, our assessments showed that this approach was not yielding the expected results,” Muganga said.

“We initially reduced the duration to three years due to the influence of neighboring countries, where universities offer three-year undergraduate programs. However, in Rwanda, the debate has continued on whether this program would produce graduates with the skills required by the labor market,” he added.

In 2017, UR had reduced the study duration for various programs from four years to three years. However, after five years of implementing this shorter program, the university decided to revert to the original four-year structure for all faculties.

Muganga emphasized that students should complete a minimum of 16 years of education before finishing their undergraduate degree, which includes six years of primary school, six years of secondary school, and four years of university.

Following the first cohort of students graduating from UR in 2020, research conducted with various stakeholders, including employers, teachers, and students, revealed that there were challenges with the three-year program.

The university believes that a four-year program will better equip students with the necessary knowledge in their fields of study, enhance their research skills, and prepare them to favorably compete on the job market. This change is also expected to improve students’ competitiveness both domestically and internationally.

“Education is a continuous process. As a university, we want to ensure that our programs align with international standards, offering a high-quality education that meets the global market demands,” Muganga noted.

Complaints from employers about the quality of education as some graduates lacked essential skills resulted in the reinstallation of a four-year study period.

Senator Prof. Telesphore Ngarambe highlighted the importance of adhering to the designated study period in university programs, arguing that the three-year model often did not allow students to fully grasp the required content. He stressed that a three-year program forces students to cover a vast amount of material in a short period, often compromising the depth of their learning.

Dr. Rose Mukankomeje, the Director-General of the Higher Education Council (HEC), recently informed lawmakers that some students missed opportunities to study at international universities because they had completed only three years of study.

“A student is typically required to complete 480 credits to earn an undergraduate degree. This means that over four years, a student should accumulate at least 100 credits per year. In three years, it becomes challenging for students to meet this requirement, which negatively impacts their chances of acceptance at international universities,” she said.

On the other hand, teachers have pointed out that the three-year study period made it difficult to cover the necessary course material and provide students with the knowledge required for success in the job market.

A student is typically required to complete 480 credits to earn an undergraduate degree.

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While it remains unclear if Xi has accepted, the mere possibility of his presence is generating significant buzz in political circles and even on social media.

Inviting a foreign leader—particularly one representing a major geopolitical rival—to a U.S. presidential inauguration is highly unusual. Historically, foreign dignitaries have attended these events, but never has a leader of Xi’s stature been asked to witness the transfer of power firsthand.

CNB, citing multiple sources, reported on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, that President-elect Donald Trump extended the invitation to Xi Jinping shortly after his November 5 election victory. The Chinese embassy in Washington has not commented on the matter, leaving analysts and observers speculating about Xi’s potential response.

What is certain, however, is that Trump’s relationship with Xi, while complex, seems to be entering a new phase. Shortly after his election victory, Xi congratulated Trump, expressing hope for a 'stable, healthy, and sustainable' relationship between the U.S. and China.

'China and the U.S. will benefit from cooperation and lose from confrontation,' Xi stated.

Proponents argue that Trump’s move could signal a willingness to reset relations between the world’s two largest economies.

Indian tech influencer Manoj Kumar reacted on X, saying, 'Interesting move by Trump! Inviting Xi Jinping could signal an intent to improve or at least stabilize U.S.-China relations right from the start of his new term. It will be key to see if Xi accepts and how this impacts international dynamics.'

During Trump’s first term between 2017 and 2021, the U.S.-China trade war heightened tensions, with tariffs and accusations of unfair trade practices dominating the bilateral agenda. Trump has vowed stricter tariffs in his second term, including a 10% levy on Chinese imports unless Beijing takes action on fentanyl trafficking.

Despite this history, Trump maintains that he shares a 'good rapport' with Xi, recently revealing that they had communicated earlier this week.

Critics, however, remain sceptical. Shahzad Saleem, a netizen, commented, 'Trump’s invitation to Xi Jinping is a bold move, but it’s hard to ignore the irony. For a leader who campaigned on being tough on China, this feels more like rolling out the red carpet for geopolitical theatre.'

This development comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-China relations, with ongoing trade disputes, restrictions on critical exports, and clashes over technology policies. Beijing has cautioned against 'mutually destructive tariff wars,' while Xi continues to call for 'peaceful coexistence.'

Whether Xi Jinping accepts Trump’s invitation or not, the gesture underscores Trump’s unpredictable diplomatic strategies. As inauguration day approaches, the global community will watch closely to see how this bold overture unfolds—and what it means for U.S.-China relations moving forward.

Donald Trump’s relationship with Xi Jinping, while complex, seems to be entering a new phase.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

No casualty was reported in the incident, as the five-member crew onboard the Boeing 737-400 cargo aircraft operated by the local Allied Air was safely evacuated, the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, which shut down the runway thereafter, said in a statement.

The aviation authorities’ order disrupted flight operations, as several landing and departure schedules were delayed while emergency workers cleared the affected runway.

In a separate statement, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau said it launched a probe into the runway incident, adding an investigative team had been dispatched to the site to conduct an “on-site assessment, recover relevant data, and interview involved parties.

Xinhua

In the sixth-day match, Botswana won the toss and opted to bowl first, which meant Rwanda had to set a target. Rwanda posted a total of 168 runs in 20 overs (120 balls), losing eight wickets. In response, Botswana began their chase for 169 runs with strong early momentum, scoring 80 runs off the first 32 balls without losing any wickets.

However, from the 9th over (ball 49) onward, Rwanda’s bowlers regained control, steadily taking wickets. The match ended with Botswana managing only 143 runs in their 20 overs, with Rwanda dismissing nine of their batsmen.

Rwandan player Rukiriza Emile was named Player of the Match, having taken four wickets for 24 runs from 24 balls. He also contributed 29 runs in the batting innings, including seven runs off four balls.

In another match on Wednesday, Uganda defeated Nigeria by 23 runs. Uganda set a target of 151 runs in their first innings, with Nigeria managing only 128 runs in their chase. Uganda dismissed nine Nigerian batsmen during the match.

The tournament is still ongoing, with Rwanda set to face Uganda at 3:15 PM on Thursday, followed by Botswana taking on Nigeria at 7:30 PM.

Currently, Uganda leads the standings with 14 points, while Rwanda is in second place with 6 points. Both Nigeria and Botswana are tied with 4 points each.

The competition, held in Gahanga, will run until December 14, 2024, and will contribute points to the International Cricket Council (ICC) monthly rankings. In the latest ICC standings, Uganda is ranked 22nd globally, Nigeria is 36th, Botswana is 50th, and Rwanda is ranked 63rd.

Rwanda’s national cricket team secured second place in the ongoing ILT20 Continent Cup.

Botswana lost the second place to Rwanda

Rwandan player Rukiriza Emile was named Player of the Match.

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For over a decade, EAC member states have agreed on the need to implement a common currency to boost regional economic integration.

The initial target for launching the currency was set for 2024, but the timeline has now been extended by an additional seven years.

Speaking before parliamentarians recently, Rwangombwa highlighted the challenges surrounding the creation of the EAC currency, particularly the unresolved issue of where the EAC Central Bank should be based.

He noted that this disagreement has been a key factor in the delay, pushing the projected launch of the currency to 2031.

'There are several unresolved issues that need to be addressed, and one of the main challenges is that the member states have not yet agreed on the location of the East African Central Bank’s headquarters. However, we are hopeful that the establishment of the currency by 2031 will contribute positively to regional integration,' Rwangombwa explained.

A recent assessment placed Tanzania as the leading candidate to host the EAC Central Bank, with a score of 82.4%. Burundi followed with 78.1%, and Kenya scored 77.3%.

However, several countries in the region, including Kenya and Uganda, have expressed dissatisfaction with the report, claiming that the evaluation process lacked transparency.

Governor Rwangombwa recently highlighted setbacks in establishing EAC single currency.

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Reflecting on the escalating violence and uncertainty following the fall of the Assad regime, the Pope urged the international community to seek a political solution that would bring lasting unity to the country without further exacerbating divisions.

During his weekly General Audience, held on the eve of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pope Francis spoke about the critical moment Syria is facing in its history.

According to Vatican News, he emphasized the importance of a resolution that would ensure the country’s stability and prevent additional conflict. The Pope also prayed for the people of Syria, hoping that they would soon be able to live in peace and security in their homeland.

In light of Syria’s shifting political landscape, particularly the rise of new leadership following the collapse of the Assad regime, Pope Francis entrusted the nation to the intercession of the Virgin Mary.

He prayed that Mary’s guidance would help Syrians move forward in peace, while also fostering greater cooperation and mutual respect among the country’s diverse religious communities, which include Sunni and Shia Muslims, as well as Christians.

As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, with the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) gaining ground, Pope Francis called for global prayers not only for Syria but also for peace in other regions affected by conflict, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and Myanmar.

He urged the world to unite in prayer, hoping that a path to peace could be found and that stability might return to these troubled areas.

Pope Francis has expressed deep concern for Syria’s ongoing crisis, calling for prayers and efforts to restore peace and stability to the war-torn nation.

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During a press briefing in Geneva on Wednesday, four Special Rapporteurs to the UN Human Rights Council called for greater international accountability for Israel’s actions, which they argue include excessive violence, humanitarian blockades, and the expansion of settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Margaret Satterthwaite, the UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, condemned U.S. efforts to undermine the International Criminal Court through “unacceptable” threats, emphasizing that international justice must be applied fairly and without bias. “It’s time to end this double standard,” she stated.

Francesca Albanese, the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Palestine, highlighted the ongoing human rights violations, citing the high number of civilian casualties and attacks on UN personnel as examples of Israel’s systemic violations.

She also criticized the lack of action from the international community, which she believes has allowed Israel to operate with little consequence. “There are never sanctions on Israel,” Albanese remarked.

“Judicial processes are either ignored or circumvented, trade continues, and diplomatic ties remain intact. Member States seem paralyzed or awestruck, many of them still normalizing the occupation.”

Ben Saul, who specializes in human rights and counterterrorism, condemned Israel’s use of counterterrorism rhetoric to justify violence against Palestinians, noting the persistent dehumanization of Palestinians over the past year.

He called for thorough investigations into these actions and the end of impunity, pointing out that Israel’s actions have largely gone unchallenged by powerful states with the ability to influence change. He specifically called out the U.S. for not using its leverage as a key military supplier to Israel to address these violations.

Finally, George Katrougalos, a Special Rapporteur on promoting a just and equitable international order, warned that the continued lack of accountability for Israel’s actions risks creating a global system where some nations are immune to repercussions for violating international law.

UN experts have accused U.S. of double standards in Israel-Palestine conflict.

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