Meeting on June 22, 2025, in an extraordinary virtual session,
We, representatives of Rwandan political parties and figures committed to a democratic, peaceful, and reconciled future for our country,
Considering
the arbitrary arrest of Mrs. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, President of the DALFA-Umurinzi party, which occurred on June 19, 2025, in Kigali;
the persistent political tensions and increasingly severe restrictions on political and civic spaces in Rwanda;
the need for political life based on pluralism, mutual respect, and the dignity of all actors, issue the following statement:
RECOGNIZING A COURAGEOUS AND PEACEFUL VOICE
We recognize in Mrs. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza a leading political figure who, through her voluntary return to Rwanda in 2010, demonstrated her commitment to the peaceful transformation of the country through dialogue and democratic participation.
Her non-violent engagement, perseverance in the face of adversity, and ability to embody a political alternative have garnered support from many citizens. She symbolizes, for many Rwandans and friends of Rwanda, the possibility of a nation where political differences can coexist without persecution or exclusion.
A WORRYING SIGNAL, BUT AN OPPORTUNITY TO SEIZE
The arrest of Mrs. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza is perceived, both within and beyond our ranks, as a troubling signal for the future of political debate in Rwanda. However, we believe it is never too late to show wisdom and political clarity.
We believe that it is still possible for the Rwandan authorities to demonstrate a commitment to national unity by ensuring an inclusive political environment where no voice is punished for proposing a different path within the framework of the institutions.
OUR CALL FOR DIALOGUE
We solemnly call on the Rwandan authorities to consider this crisis as an opportunity to take a historic step toward genuine political openness.
We are convinced that a sincere and constructive dialogue among the country’s political forces—government, internal opposition, and diaspora—is not only desirable but necessary. It is time to envision peaceful coexistence based on mutual recognition, constitutional loyalty, and a shared vision for the future.
OUR DEMANDS
The immediate and unconditional release of Mrs. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, in respect of her fundamental rights.
An end to the arrests and intimidation targeting peaceful opponents and civil society actors.
OUR PRINCIPLED POSITION
We, Rwandan opposition political forces, reaffirm our commitment to a reconciled, democratic Rwanda that respects the rights of all. Our willingness to engage in dialogue is genuine, and so is our determination to continue the peaceful struggle.
We are ready to contribute, responsibly, to any initiative aimed at opening a new chapter in our national political life.
Done on June 23, 2025.
Signatories:
Amahoro PC, Etienne Masozera (President)
FDU-Inkingi, Placide Kayumba (President)
Gen. Emmanuel Habyarimana, Political Figure
GREX, Thomas Nahimana (President)
Nkiko Nsengimana, Political Figure
PDR-Ihumure, Paul Rusesabagina (President)
PS-Imberakuri, Ryumugabe Jean Baptiste (Coordinator)
RDI Rwanda Nzinza, Hildebrand Kayibanda (President)
RNC, Emmanuel Hakizimana (President)
RRM, Kasimu Butoyi (President)
Contact:
Placide Kayumba
+32 485 19 80 30
pkayumba@gmail.com