The Man Whose Heroism Inspired 'Hotel Rwanda' Is Convicted On Terrorism Charges
A court in Rwanda has convicted Paul Rusesabagina, whose heroism inspired the film Hotel Rwanda, on terrorism charges related to a group he supports. Rusesabagina is a prominent opposition activist, calling for democracy in Rwanda.
Rusesabagina has been a vocal critic of President Paul Kagame, who has now led Rwanda for more than 20 years. His arrest followed his calls for change — and his support for a group that is affiliated with a rebel group accused of carrying out violence.
The court's finding comes after Rusesabagina withdrew from his trial in March, saying the proceedings were unfair and would not bring justice. Authorities deported his main attorney, Vincent Lurquin, earlier this year. Lurquin, who is Belgian, told the media that he hadn't been allowed to see his client.
The activist was arrested in 2020
Rusesabagina was arrested under circumstances that have been described as both a kidnapping and a trick: He had been living abroad, aware of the reprisals he would likely face in Rwanda. But when he got on the plane that took him to Rwanda, he had apparently been told that he was going to Burundi at the invitation of a pastor.
https://www.npr.org/2021/09/20/1038891027/paul-rusesabagina-hotel-rwanda-terrorism-verdict
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