The High Court of Nyarugenge on Monday, February 16, 2026, adjourned the appeal hearing of prominent Rwandan fashion designer Moses Turahirwa, popularly known as “Moshions,” who is challenging a one-year prison sentence for drug-related offences.
Turahirwa had appealed a December 2025 ruling by the Intermediate Court of Nyarugenge, which convicted him on two counts: possession or consumption of cannabis and transporting or storing narcotic substances.
During the hearing, Turahirwa said he was not ready to proceed, noting that his legal team had yet to receive the full case file. His lawyer, Me Mukeshimana Albertine, requested more time to prepare a thorough defence, citing missing documents and procedural gaps.
The presiding judge questioned why Turahirwa did not want a swift hearing. He explained that he was unwell and not in a position to continue. Questions were also raised about the absence of another defence lawyer, Me Bayisabe Irene, with Me Mukeshimana explaining that certain materials had not been provided by the family.
After considering submissions from both sides, the prosecution supported the adjournment, recommending that the defence be granted adequate time to prepare.
The High Court consequently postponed the hearing to March 16, 2026.
Turahirwa, who was sentenced in December 2025 to one year in prison with court fees waived, filed his appeal on December 28, 2025. He told the court on Monday that, if upheld, his sentence would end in July 2026.
This adjournment marks another chapter in a high-profile case that has drawn significant public attention due to Turahirwa’s status as a leading figure in Rwanda’s fashion industry.
