Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) president Fabrice Shema has been released from detention after reaching an agreement with prosecutors, his lawyer Christophe Niyomugabo has confirmed. Shema was arrested on August 11 over charges related to issuing a bouncing cheque worth more than $600,000. The case stems from a business transaction between Africa Medical Supplier, a company represented by Shema, and ABZL International General Trading LLC, a United Arab Emirates-based company. According to the prosecution, the two companies entered into agreements in January 2024 valued at approximately €1.9 million, with Africa Medical Supplier expected to make the required payments within 60 days. The agreements were not fulfilled, leading to a payment dispute and the issuance of two cheques, prosecutors told the court. The cheques were drawn on an I&M Bank account belonging to Africa Medical Supplier. Prosecutors said the bank told investigators that the account held slightly more than $1,000 when inquiries were made. Under the law, knowingly issuing a bouncing cheque is an offence punishable by two to five years in prison and a fine ranging from five to 10 times the amount stated on the cheque. Prosecutors had asked the court to remand Shema for 30 days, arguing that he could evade justice or interfere with the ongoing investigation if released. He was subsequently remanded pending trial. Shema appealed the decision last week, but the hearing was postponed after his defence lawyers told the court they were negotiating an agreement with prosecutors. On Tuesday, September 22, the defence reached an agreement with the prosecution, which was approved by the court, paving the way for Shema's release. Niyomugabo told The New Times that the agreement provides for prosecutors to seek a six-month suspended sentence for Shema, suspended for one year, and a fine of Rwf 3 million. He said Shema had also cleared the bouncing cheques that led to the charges. Under the law, plea-bargaining negotiations can be initiated at any stage of criminal proceedings before the court makes a decision on the case. The prosecutor is expected, where appropriate, to ensure that such negotiations begin as early as possible.
