Germain Rukuki (age 42) is a Burundian citizen, father to three children, and a human rights defender who has been serving a 32-year prison sentence for his activism. For more information about Germain’s case, please contact Emily Humphreys: emily.humphreys (emily.humphreys(at)) This is especially true for the European Union and its member states who have begun to implement a new roadmap of cooperation with Burundi. Protection International reminds decision-makers within the international community to ensure that Burundi makes clear and concrete commitments to democratic principles and values, human rights, human rights defenders, and the rule of law. Defending human rights is not a crime, and we urge that all HRDs be recognised and protected. This verdict is a step in the right direction for the country, but the fate of other imprisoned HRDs, such as former member of parliament Fabien Banciryanino, must not be forgotten. Protection International hopes that this promising occasion will improve the environment for the right to defend human rights in Burundi. And you have the right to defend human rights.” Germain’s release sends a powerful reminder to all defenders in Burundi and across the African continent. “The verdict sets an important precedent for invalidating the criminalisation of human rights defenders. “This is a glorious day not only for Germain, who will be finally reunited with his family and young children but for all of Burundi,” says Susan Muriungi, Protection International’s Regional Director for Africa.
HRD PRESS TRIAL
The trial observation was allowed for the duration of the hearing, which lasted 3 hours, and it was attended by two EU diplomatic observers present, as well as by the Burundian Commission Nationale Indépendante des Droits de l'Homme. Protection International celebrates this verdict, which allows Germain to return to his family who he has been separated from for nearly 4 years.ĭuring the hearing, which took place in Ngozi prison on 24 March 2021, both Germain and his legal team were able to express themselves freely and engaged in an in-depth debate with the magistrates from the Appeal Court. In accordance with Burundi’s judicial process, this final decision cannot be further appealed. Germain has been imprisoned since 2017, therefore the 1 year sentence has already been served. Only the charge of “rebellion” was upheld. Germain was acquitted of the charges of “participation in an insurrectionist movement”, “threatening state security” and “attacking the authority of the State”.
HRD PRESS SERIES
– After a series of drawn-out court proceedings, the Appeal Court has ruled that the sentence for Burundian human rights defender (HRD) Germain Rukuki has been reduced from 32 years to 1 year, with a fine of 50,000Fbu. PRESS RELEASE Germain Rukuki’s Sentence Reduced A judicial victory for the Burundian HRD