The High Council Court of Nyarugenge has ordered the release of Mazimpaka Patrick, Nizeyimana Didier (also known as Mucoma), Nkeramihigo Japhet, and Tumukunde Djuma, who had been facing charges brought by Barafinda Sekikubo Fred. The four will continue to face trial while out on bail.
Barafinda Sekikubo Fred, however, remains in detention after appearing in a closed hearing on Monday, March 9, 2026, to contest both his pretrial detention and the request for release. The final ruling in his case is scheduled for March 12, 2026.
All five individuals were accused of spreading false information via social media, particularly on YouTube channels where they hosted and shared various discussions. The Kicukiro Court initially ordered their detention, citing ongoing investigations by the prosecution as justification.
During the recent hearing at Nyarugenge High Council, Nizeyimana Didier (Mucoma) expressed dissatisfaction with the lower court’s decision, claiming it overlooked evidence of his innocence. He highlighted that he came to Rwanda as an investor, set up a company with employees, and had no control over the content produced on the channels. He added that the videos in question were recorded in the United States and that he promptly removed them from YouTube upon discovering their upload.
Mucoma also emphasized that he visits Rwanda only twice a year and would not have committed any offense knowingly. He asked the court to release him so he could continue to respond to legal requirements while managing his business and family obligations. “I am committed to cooperating with justice and contributing positively to the country,” he said.
Mazimpaka Patrick explained that his role was limited to moderating discussions and that he never made statements that could harm the country. Nkeramihigo Japhet, responsible for filming, said he acted solely under instruction and as part of his teaching duties at Kayenzi Spring College in Kamonyi District.
According to sources, Nizeyimana Didier (Mucoma) and the other colleagues were released on March 6, 2026, after the High Council determined there was no strong reason to continue their detention.
Barafinda Sekikubo Fred remains in custody, with the court scheduled to read the verdict in his case on March 12, 2026.
