By Moses Walubiri
Government has quickly moved to refute reports that it’s already
considering Rwanda’s request to extradite seven of its nationals
enjoying refugee status in Uganda, clarifying that it’s yet to receive
the names of the ‘wanted people.’
President Paul Kagame
Rwanda, through its Inspector General of Police, Emmanuel Gasana,
without naming names, recently requested the extradition of seven
refugees it accused of committing a litany of crimes.
State Minister for Refugees, Musa Ecweru, was earlier this week quoted
by French News Agency (AFP) as saying that government is considering
Rwanda’s request, implicitly indicating that Kigali had finally
submitted the names of the wanted refugees.
“Rwanda is yet to give us the names,” Commissioner for Refugees, Apollo
Kazungu, said when asked about the AFP report, adding; “In any case, we
will strictly abide by the laws and conventions governing refugees.”
Kazungu said Rwanda will have to adduce a convincing case that the
refugees being sought have genuine criminal charges to answer, noting;
“being granted refugee status doesn’t grant any one amnesty from
prosecution for crimes committed.”
According to Article 41 of the Refugee Act, the Minister for Refugees in
consultation with Commissioner for Refugees might okay the extradition
of a person granted refugee status to a country which has extradition
agreement with Uganda.
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