Ntaganda, co-accused appear before court

KIGALI - The trial Bernard Ntaganda, the leader of a faction of Parti Social (PS) Imberakuri political party, and 8 others accused of threatening state security and organising an illegal demonstration, among other charges, resumed yesterday at Nyarugenge Intermediate Court. Bernard Ntaganda and eight others were rounded up by police on the June 24 as they planned to carryout a demonstration without permission from authorities.All the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges and are seeking bail. Prosecution insisted that Ntaganda, who is also facing attempted murder charges for allegedly attempting to assassinate his rival, Christine Mukabunani, and his co-accused, are facing serious criminal charges and should be provisionally detained as the case continues. Theobald Mutarambirwa, Alice Muhirwa, FDU-Inkingi’s treasurer as well as Sylvain Sibomana, the Secretary General, are accused along with Ntaganda, of organising an illegal protest. Others include Theogene Muhayeyezu, a lawyer, Martin Ntavuka an FDU member, Jean Baptiste Icyitonderwa, a student of KIST and member of PS Imberakuri and Sylvere Mwizerwa. The court also heard that dangerous objects were seized from Ntaganda’s office and will be used as evidence to prove that Ntaganda was plotting to harm people. He denies the charges. The hearing proceeds today. Ends

National

Ntaganda, co-accused appear before court