On November 2, 2026, the President of the Supreme Court, Rt. Hon. Domitilla Mukantaganzwa, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of three new commissioners of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR). Nyiragwaneza Athanasie, Bangayandusha Viateur, and Umutoni Aissa took an oath to oversee, promote, and protect human rights in Rwanda. This ceremony marks a significant step in reinforcing the country's commitment to upholding human rights.
In her address, Rt. Hon. Mukantaganzwa emphasized that the oath taken by the new commissioners is a pledge to the people of Rwanda and the country itself. She highlighted that their primary responsibility is to monitor, promote, and protect human rights as stipulated by the law establishing the NCHR. The President of the Supreme Court expressed confidence in the new commissioners' ability to discharge their duties effectively, given their diverse backgrounds in governance, law, and decision-making.
The new commissioners bring with them a wealth of experience that is expected to enhance the Commission's capabilities. Umutoni Aissa, previously a member of the NCHR, will continue her role but at a higher level. Nyiragwaneza Athanasie, a former Member of Parliament, and Bangayandusha Viateur, a law lecturer at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD), are expected to leverage their expertise to advance human rights. Their diverse backgrounds are seen as pivotal in addressing various human rights issues.
Bangayandusha Viateur noted that his experience in legal education will enable him to effectively execute his duties, particularly in educating Rwandans about their rights as enshrined in national and international laws. He emphasized that one of their key tasks will be to sensitize the public about their rights and to conduct research on specific human rights issues affecting certain groups. This will enable them to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to find solutions.
Nyiragwaneza Athanasie highlighted that her experience as a parliamentarian will be instrumental in overseeing issues related to human rights violations and finding solutions. She noted that her understanding of state institutions, gained through her legislative experience, will be beneficial. Her role, along with the other commissioners, will include receiving and monitoring public complaints, conducting advocacy, and providing input on laws when necessary.
The new commissioners were approved by the Rwandan Senate on October 29, 2026, following a thorough assessment by Senate committees that scrutinized their qualifications. The committees found that the new commissioners possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to contribute to the promotion and protection of human rights in Rwanda. This development is seen as a positive step towards enhancing the country's human rights landscape.
The swearing-in of the new commissioners is expected to bolster the NCHR's capacity to address human rights issues effectively. With their diverse expertise and commitment, they are poised to make a significant impact in promoting and protecting the rights of Rwandans. The ceremony underscored the government's commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring that the necessary mechanisms are in place to address related challenges.
Key points
- The new commissioners aim to enhance public awareness of human rights through education and research.
- The commissioners' diverse backgrounds in governance, law, and decision-making are expected to strengthen the NCHR's capabilities.
- The swearing-in ceremony marks a significant step in Rwanda's efforts to promote and protect human rights.
