The Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) has moved decisively to address issues highlighted in the 2024–2025 report by the National Commission for Human Rights, confirming that most of the challenges affecting inmates have already been resolved.
Commissioner General of RCS, Evariste Murenzi, briefed members of the Parliamentary Committee on National Unity and Human Rights, detailing the steps taken by the service.
The report had flagged cases of inmates who remained in custody after completing their sentences, detainees held without valid court orders, and other obstacles linked to coordination among relevant institutions.
CG Murenzi explained that RCS worked in close collaboration with other government bodies to correct these issues.
“The issues raised by the National Commission for Human Rights were promptly addressed, and most of them have already been resolved,” Murenzi told the committee. “We coordinated with various institutions to release inmates who had completed their sentences and to resolve other gaps that were identified.”
He noted that delays in releasing some inmates were largely due to slow coordination between institutions, but added that measures have been strengthened to prevent a recurrence.
“We are working with all relevant institutions to ensure that inmates who have completed their sentences are released promptly, so such delays do not happen again,” he said.
The Commissioner General reaffirmed that RCS prioritizes the protection of human rights within correctional facilities and other detention centers. He also highlighted that reports from oversight bodies continue to help the service improve its operations and accountability.
