The appeal hearing in a case involving Jean Bosco Bizimana, the pastor of Zeraphat Holy Church, and his wife, Jeanne Mukansengiyumva, started at Nyarugenge Intermediate Court on Monday, November 18.

Court ruled that the appeal trial, just like the previous bail hearing, will also proceed in camera.

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The couple faces charges of fraud, blackmail, and distributing pornographic material through digital platforms.

The appeal, filed by the prosecution, challenges the Kicukiro Primary Court’s October 31 decision to grant the couple bail. Bizimana and Mukansengiyumva were initially detained on October 9, and their bail hearing was held in camera following a prosecution request.

The couple secured bail after offering their house, valued at approximately Rwf60 million, as collateral.

If found guilty of fraud, Bizimana and Mukansengiyumva could face prison sentences of two to three years and fines of between Rwf3 million and Rwf5 million.

On October 18, Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) announced it revoked Zeraphat Holy Church's legal status, citing non-compliance with legal requirements.