Paul Rusesabagina, whose bravery during the Rwandan genocide was depicted in the Academy Award-nominated film “Hotel Rwanda,” is set to be released from prison on Saturday. The Rwandan government made the announcement on Friday, ending his two-and-a-half-year detention after he was captured and held by the Rwandan government. Rusesabagina had moved to the United States and become a vocal critic of Rwanda’s long-time leader, Paul Kagame, whose autocratic rule, poor human rights record, and military interventions in neighboring countries have been condemned. Rusesabagina’s trial drew widespread criticism and condemnation, including from Don Cheadle, who played Rusesabagina in the movie and campaigned for his release.
Rusesabagina was lured into traveling overseas for what he thought was a speaking engagement in August 2020, only to be abducted by the Rwandan government and subjected to torture and trial. He was convicted on eight charges, including murder, kidnapping, and belonging to a terrorist group, following a flawed seven-month trial. However, Rusesabagina maintained his innocence throughout. He will be released along with 19 others who were convicted on terrorism-related charges.
The release was the result of several months of negotiations involving the Rwandan government, the White House, Rusesabagina’s family, and the government of Qatar. Rusesabagina is expected to travel to Doha and then on to the United States. The arrangements were discussed during a meeting between Kagame and the Emir of Qatar at the Global Security Forum in Doha. Rusesabagina’s family has campaigned for his release, and his detention has been criticized by the US Congress and the European Parliament.
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