New NCHR boss takes office

The president of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), Madeleine Nirere,assumed office on Tuesday with the taking of the oath that was presided over by the Chief Justice Prof. Sam Rugege.

Thursday, April 19, 2012
Nirere (R) with Zainabu Kayitesi after Tuesdayu2019s swearing in ceremony. The New Times / J. Mbanda.

The president of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), Madeleine Nirere,assumed office on Tuesday with the taking of the oath that was presided over by the Chief Justice Prof. Sam Rugege. Nirere who was the Senate’s Deputy Clerk in charge of legislature and parliament affairs, replaced Sylvie Zainabo Kayitesi, who is now the Deputy Chief Justice.The Chief Justice urged the new office bearer to work diligently and ensure that all human rights are upheld."You have the responsibility of ensuring that all Rwandans are enlightened about their rights. Work with other partners to educate and assess how people are treated, including inmates,” Prof. Rugege said.He observed the new NCHR head needed to work hard to fit in the shoes of her predecessor.Nirere told The New Times, she would consolidate what had been achieved as well as embark on rights awareness."I will ensure that our citizens are aware of their human rights. I will be working with other stakeholders like civil society and other organisations to advance the rights of Rwandans,” she said.