In a historic public court martial held in the heart of Nyamasheke District yesterday, Sergeant Minani Gervais faced charges of murder and other serious offenses following the deaths of five civilians on 13 November 2024.
The military tribunal convened under the open sky, drawing village residents, grieving families, and community elders to witness the proceedings. This rare public hearing was a stark reminder of the gravity of the tragedy that unfolded in the quiet Rusharara Cell, Karambi Sector, where Sgt. Minani is accused of fatally shooting five civilians at a local bar in the early hours of that fateful day.
The 39-year-old soldier, who was arrested shortly after the incident with help from local residents, stood before the tribunal as charges of premeditated murder, unlawful use of a firearm, and destruction of military property were formally read out. His defense counsel argued that Sgt. Minani was unwell and unfit to stand trial. However, this claim was swiftly dismissed after medical professionals confirmed his good health.
The prosecution painted a grim picture, seeking life imprisonment for the murder charges, five years for the destruction of military property, and an additional year for unlawful weapon use. The court has set the verdict for next Monday, 9 December, at 2:00 PM.
The public nature of the trial was not lost on the gathered community. For many, this was their first time witnessing such a high-stakes tribunal involving one of their own. It underscored the Rwanda Defence Force’s (RDF) commitment to transparency and accountability.
In a statement, the RDF expressed deep sorrow for the incident, describing it as a dark moment. “We deeply regret the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims,” the statement read.
For the families of those who lost their lives, and for the village that has been left shaken, the tribunal is both a quest for justice and a step toward healing. As the sun set on the first day of the trial, one elder remarked, “This is a painful chapter, but seeing justice unfold here, in front of us, gives us hope that the truth will prevail.”
The community now awaits the court’s verdict, hoping that justice will provide a measure of closure for this unimaginable loss.
