Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) President Fabrice Shema was arrested on Tuesday, August 11, over allegations of issuing a cheque without sufficient funds, commonly known as “sheki itazigamiye.”
Rwanda Investigation Bureau spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira confirmed the arrest, saying Shema is being held at a RIB station in Kicukiro District as investigations continue.
RIB is also examining possible related offences but has not disclosed further details.
Shema was elected FERWAFA president in August 2025 after previously serving as president of AS Kigali.
He is also the founder and CEO of Africa Medical Supplier Plc (AMS), a medical equipment and pharmaceutical distribution company operating in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
AMS attracted attention in 2025 after issuing a Rwf5 billion, five-year corporate bond carrying a 13.25 percent annual coupon and subsequently listing it on the Rwanda Stock Exchange.
There is currently no indication that Shema’s arrest is connected to AMS or the bond. RIB has not disclosed the amount involved in the alleged cheque or the identity of the complainant. Investigations are ongoing.
The arrest has also renewed debate over Rwanda’s use of pre-trial detention. Rwandan journalist and commentator Gonzaga Muganwa questioned whether detention was necessary in this case.
“The culture of detention remains a big stain on Rwanda’s judicial system. This is not a case that requires pre-trial detention given the status of the suspect, ability to get sureties and bond money,” Muganwa said.
Another commentator on X said, “We don’t have the details of the case, but I do believe RIB often acts as if it is working under constant pressure. The criteria for deciding who to detain, and on what charges, have not always been clear or consistent.”
“Shema Fabrice, the leader has worked to change some of the things that concern everyone in football in Rwanda, Mr. Fabrice has worked to give recognition to those Legends who love football in Rwanda, what a person does is what we remember them for,” said Luckman Nizeyimana.
Suspects, according to the Rwandan law, are presumed innocent unless and until convicted by a court.
