Ex-hospital director cited in Karongi graft case

KARONGI-The former Director of Kibuye Hospital in Karongi District Dr. Cyrille Dusengamungu has been cited in the ongoing investigation into corruption at the health facility. Dusengamungu, allegedly played a vital role in the disappearance of the money, incriminating three other hospital staff currently facing trial. The trio charged earlier are Innocent Sevumba, an Administrative Officer, Dominique Xaxier Nzanana, an Accountant and Leandre Ntigurirwa, a former Environmental Health Officer at the hospital. During the initial court appearance last Friday, Sevumba’s defence attorney, Felicien Bimenyimana, called for the arrest of Dusengamungu, arguing that he was one of the signatories at the time the money went missing. “There was a supervisor who jointly authorised all expenditures for which my client is under trial. He should also be charged of the same offence,” Bimenyimana challenged before a fully packed court room. Presiding Judge, Samuel Murenzi, preferred not to comment and referred the matter to prosecution. Dusengamungu is currently based in Rubavu District and works for the International Centre for AIDS Care and treatment Programmes (ICAP), Rwanda. “As investigations proceed, we shall not hesitate to call upon whoever has explanations to give even if it is the former hospital director,” Venuste Minani, the lead prosecutor, said. The case arose following an audit conducted by district authorities and confirmed by the advisory council between 2008 and 2010. Before the trial kicked off, the suspects were allowed to meet and compare notes with the auditors. After the meeting, the money in question eventually reduced from Rwf24million to Rwf 18.5million though the suspects continued to deny responsibility. If convicted, each of suspects faces a jail sentence of between five and ten years. sam.nkurunziza@newtimes.co.rw Ends

National

Ex-hospital director cited in Karongi graft case