Chief Justice Domitilla Mukantaganzwa has urged newly appointed commissioners of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) to uphold the trust placed in them by the country and work to ensure that the rights of everyone living in Rwanda are respected.
She made the call during the swearing-in ceremony of the three commissioners at the Supreme Court headquarters on Monday, November 2.
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The new commissioners are Athanasie Nyiragwaneza, Viateur Bangayandusha and Aissa Umutoni. They were appointed during a Cabinet meeting held on Monday, October 26, before their appointments were approved by the Senate on Thursday, October 29.
During the vetting process, senators discussed the nominees&039; priorities and made recommendations on how they could contribute to improving the performance of the institutions they were appointed to serve.
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She welcomed the commissioners' willingness to take on the responsibility, noting that their different professional backgrounds and previous experience could strengthen the commission's work.
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Umutoni has previously served at the commission, while Nyiragwaneza was a Member of Parliament. Bangayandusha previously served as an academic dean at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD).
The Chief Justice said their experience, particularly their familiarity with legal matters, would be valuable in advancing the protection of human rights.
"You were selected from among many people, and you should make good use of the trust placed in you. This is your time to make a contribution," she said.
She also encouraged them to use their time in office responsibly and in ways that benefit the country and its people, pledging continued cooperation as they carry out their duties.
Commissioners pledge continued cooperation
Nyiragwaneza said her experience in Parliament would help her contribute to the promotion of human rights, particularly given the legislature's role in examining human rights issues and the commission's reports.
She noted that, during her time as an MP, Parliament had assessed reports from the commission, discussed outstanding human rights challenges and considered measures needed to address them.
"Having served as a Member of Parliament, I believe that experience will help me continue promoting human rights. We have previously worked together in examining the commission's reports and identifying challenges that need to be addressed. I hope we will continue working together in these new responsibilities," she said.
Bangayandusha, who previously served as academic dean at ILPD, said he would prioritise raising public awareness of human rights and ensuring that people understand the rights guaranteed under the country's laws.
"We will continue educating people about their rights as provided for under the laws of the country. We will also continue working with the government," he said.
The commissioners take up their responsibilities as the commission continues its mandate of promoting and protecting human rights in Rwanda.