USA

‘Hotel Rwanda’ heroic figure set to be freed from prison after intense US diplomacy

Paul Rusesabagina, the Rwandan hero who inspired the 2004 Oscar-nominated film ‘Hotel Rwanda’, is set to be freed from prison after intense US diplomatic intervention.

Rusesabagina, who sheltered over 1,200 Tutsis during the Rwandan genocide, had been arrested and charged with terrorism in August 2020. The US State Department had since then been working closely with the Rwandan government to secure his release.

Rusesabagina, who is currently in a Kigali prison, will be released following a decision by the High Court in Rwanda. The court is expected to rule in favour of a petition filed by his lawyers, who had argued that Rusesabagina’s arrest was unconstitutional and that his detention was unjustified.

The US State Department has been closely involved in the case from the very beginning. Officials met with Rwandan government representatives in order to discuss the case and to ensure that Rusesabagina received a fair and impartial trial. The State Department also provided legal assistance and financial support to Rusesabagina’s legal team.

The court’s decision is expected to be a major victory for Rusesabagina and his supporters, who have long campaigned for his release. Supporters of Rusesabagina have also argued that his arrest was politically motivated, citing his outspoken criticism of the Rwandan government.

Rusesabagina’s story has become an international symbol of courage and resilience. His actions during the Rwandan genocide inspired the film ‘Hotel Rwanda’, which was nominated for three Academy Awards in 2005.

Rusesabagina’s imminent release marks a significant step forward in US-Rwandan relations, which have been strained in recent years. The US State Department is hopeful that the court’s decision will help to restore trust and cooperation between the two countries.