KIGALI - THE Rwandan Bar Association has assured Peter Erlinder, the American lawyer arrested on charges of Genocide denial, that the organization will make sure he receives a fair trial.

A statement released by the president of the Rwandan Bar Association, Vincent Karangwa, revealed that Erlinder had neither formally applied nor been accredited by the Rwandan Bar Association, but promised they will closely monitor the case, saying the Bar would provide legal assistance where necessary.

"The Bar reiterates its assurance to closely follow-up this matter in a bid to guarantee his defense rights enshrined both under the laws regulating the profession of advocates in Rwanda as well as international laws,” reads the statement.

"The Bar reassures that our concerned learned friend of the legal fraternity will be represented by the Counsel of his choice or an appointee by the President of the Bar upon his request.”

The controversial lawyer was arrested on Friday on charges of Genocide denial and is awaiting trial.

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