A Rwandan Court on Tuesday adjourned hearing in a case involving popular Rwandan disc jockey DJ Toxxyk.
The Nyarugenge Primary Court said it was not ready to proceed. The postponement followed DJ Toxxyk’s appearance before the court, where he briefly exited the courtroom after the judge announced the suspension of the hearing.
DJ Toxxyk faces four serious charges, including involuntary manslaughter, drug use, refusal to undergo an alcohol breath test, and fleeing the scene after causing or being involved in a road accident.
The hearing was meant to determine whether he would be granted provisional release or remanded in custody.
According to his lawyers, the defense was unprepared to argue the case because they had received the prosecution file only a day earlier, leaving them with less than 24 hours to review the case materials.
The court accepted the request and adjourned the proceedings to allow adequate preparation.
Legal observers say the DJ could face severe penalties if convicted, including a lengthy prison sentence and heavy fines, particularly under Rwanda’s newly enacted road traffic law.
The new legislation, adopted by the Chamber of Deputies on January 5, 2026, replaces a law that had been in force for nearly 40 years and was considered outdated.
The revised law introduces tougher sanctions for serious traffic offenses such as drunk driving, refusing alcohol testing, disobeying lawful orders from traffic police, and driving without a valid license.
Under the new framework, offenders face fines ranging from 400,000 to 700,000 Rwandan francs, as well as possible prison sentences of up to six months, depending on the severity of the offense.
Authorities say the law aims to improve road safety and significantly reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities across the country.
As DJ Toxxyk’s case continues, it is expected to draw public attention as a key test of Rwanda’s strengthened traffic regulations and the principle that the law applies equally to all.
By Andrew Shyaka
