Bishop Gafaranga arrived at the Nyamata Primary Court at 6:34 AM, transported in a Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) vehicle. Under tight security, he was escorted via a separate entrance, aimed at preventing media interaction and ensuring a safe passage.
The court session commenced with the prosecutor requesting a closed-door hearing, citing the sensitive nature of the case and prioritizing the safety of the accuser. This request aimed to minimize exposure and potential threats during the legal proceedings.
When asked about his stance on the private hearing, Bishop Gafaranga expressed full agreement, stating he would have proposed the arrangement even if not brought up. His legal representative promptly endorsed this position, highlighting its importance for a fair trial.
Once the court was cleared of unauthorized attendees, the accuser arrived to observe the proceedings, eager to follow the case closely and monitor developments.
According to reports provided to Inyarwanda, Gafaranga faces serious allegations involving three charges: gender-based violence, assault and battery, and repeated threats against his spouse. These charges paint a severe picture, prompting urgent prosecutorial actions.
The prosecutor strongly advocated for Gafaranga's provisional custody for 30 days, emphasizing ongoing investigations and fears that he might evade justice if released. This precautionary measure was underscored as critical to ensuring justice served.
Supporting their position, the prosecution presented local authority reports detailing consistent conflicts between Gafaranga and the accuser. Additionally, they submitted medical documentation revealing severe depression experienced by the accuser, allegedly caused by the abuse.
Safety concerns for the accuser were a focal point, with the prosecution insisting that Gafaranga’s detention was necessary to prevent potential harm while the investigation unfolds.
Addressing the allegations, Gafaranga refuted the claims, characterizing any disagreements between him and the accuser as typical relationship issues. He appealed for his release, reassuring the court that the accuser’s safety would remain intact.
Gafaranga’s lawyer challenged the prosecution's evidence, discrediting the investigations and questioning the credibility of their witnesses. He argued that the case lacked substantial evidence and was driven by unverified claims.
Taking a strategic approach, the lawyer revealed that the accuser herself had penned a letter advocating for Gafaranga’s release, suggesting that his detention was counterproductive to resolving their issues. This plea for clemency bolstered Gafaranga's defense.
Furthermore, Gafaranga cited financial disputes as an underlying motive behind the conflict but assured the court that he was prepared to offer guarantees and had a surety to back his compliance. He pressed for his release, proposing to be monitored while out of custody.
The court panel concluded by announcing its intention to deliberate thoroughly on the arguments presented by both sides. A decision is anticipated once the review of evidence and testimonies is completed.
Bishop Gafaranga has been requested to remain in detention for 30 days as investigations into the allegations continue