The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has reported a 36.3 percent reduction in complaints filed by citizens, dropping from over 900 cases in 2022/2023 to 573 in 2023/2024. According to a report presented to parliament on Tuesday, January 7, out of the total number of complaints received in 2023/2024 period, 75.4 percent were resolved, 11.8 percent were referred to relevant institutions for further action, and 12.7 percent remain under investigation. ALSO READ: The world has yet to learn from Rwanda’s tragedy, says AU rights official The NCHR is an independent body tasked with promoting and protecting human rights. Its responsibilities include receiving and investigating testimonies on human rights violations, accessing sites where violations are alleged, and gathering evidence through testimonies and expert opinions. The report revealed that the majority of complaints in 2023/2024 involved land property disputes (281 cases), followed by dissatisfaction with judicial processes (264 cases). NCHR Chairperson Providence Umurungi attributed the reduction in complaints to various initiatives aimed at resolving disputes and fostering collaboration among stakeholders in human rights protection. ALSO READ: International Human Rights Day highlights collective action, Rwanda’s progress in protecting vulnerable groups “Many issues are now being resolved at the community level through inteko z’abaturage (citizen assemblies) and the involvement of different institutions in addressing cases,” she explained. She also highlighted the impact of alternative measures, such as plea bargaining and the establishment of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, in reducing the number of filed complaints. ALSO READ: New study shows how Rwanda, Kenya leverage technology for Justice delivery While the commission acknowledged the progress, it emphasized the need for increased attention to specific areas, including the rights of persons with disabilities, gender-based violence, and the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises.
