Inmates at Nyarugenge Correctional Facility have described plea bargaining as a path to healing and reintegration, saying it helps offenders reconcile with victims while giving them a second chance to rebuild their lives. For Fatia Mucyo, convicted of fraud, the process allowed her to meet her victim, settle the matter, and receive a reduced sentence from two years to one, with nine months suspended. Having completed her three-month term, she said the experience reshaped her understanding of justice. “Plea bargaining helps you return to society, gives peace to the victim, and restores good relations,” she said. “When you are remorseful, the process becomes easier. It’s a relief not only for me but also for my family.” Similarly, Samuel Bizumuremyi, detained for forgery, said the process gave him psychological peace after allowing him to meet his victim, apologise, and agree on compensation. “At first, it was hard to understand,” he said, “but now I see how important it is—it helps you stop judging yourself and lifts the burden you feel toward your victims.” ALSO READ: Plea bargaining: Over 13,000 cases resolved in two years The two inmates shared their experiences on November 13 during an event at Nyarugenge Correctional Facility, where Chief Justice Domitilla Mukantaganzwa highlighted plea bargaining’s role in promoting restorative justice. The practice, which began at this facility, is expected to be rolled out to other correctional centres across the country. Justice that heals, not just punishes Chief Justice Mukantaganzwa said plea bargaining reflects Rwanda’s policy of correction rather than punishment and aims to promote accountability and reconciliation. “This policy ensures justice that corrects rather than punishes,” she said. “The government is also promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms so that not every issue ends up in court.” She reminded inmates that reform begins with personal responsibility. “Committing a crime doesn’t mean you lack conscience,” she said. “This country needs you to be part of its development not as a burden, but as contributors.” Mukantaganzwa stressed that the goal is not simply to reduce prison congestion but to ensure fair and timely justice rooted in remorse and reconciliation. Over 8,700 cases handled nationwide Rose Muhisoni, the Deputy Commissioner General of the Rwanda Correctional Service commended the initiative as a sign of strong collaboration within the justice sector. “So far, over 8,700 cases have been registered nationwide, with 5,200 concluded through plea bargaining,” she said. “The process brings hope to the accused, allowing them to admit their crimes and begin reintegration.” Lawyers’ key role Rwanda Bar Association President Moise Nkundabarashi reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting the process. “We will continue to accompany inmates throughout this journey,” he said. “Plea bargaining benefits all parties.” He cited the example of Callixte Nsabimana, alias Sankara, a former FNL spokesperson who received a reduced sentence of five years through plea bargaining before being released under a presidential pardon alongside more than 3,000 inmates. The Bar Association has participated in over 26,000 plea-bargaining cases and currently has a team of ten trained lawyers dedicated to the process, with plans to expand as demand grows.
