The charges stem from testimonies and evidence presented during an ongoing trial involving nine individuals, among them journalist Théoneste Nsengimana of Umubavu TV.
The prosecution has linked Ingabire to covert training sessions allegedly organized under the banner of DALFA-Umurinzi, a political movement that has not been legally registered in Rwanda.
Prosecutors claim that these sessions served as a platform for plotting a campaign to overthrow the government, allegedly through non-violent strategies inspired by the book Blueprint for Revolution by Serbian activist Srdja Popovic.
According to testimonies, the sessions were attended by former DALFA-Umurinzi members who were reportedly coached on how to exploit popular grievances, such as land tax policies, urban relocation disputes (notably in Kangondo), and grievances of motorcycle taxi drivers, to provoke public demonstrations.
Training modules referred to as Operation Shirubwoba, Serwakira, and Sondage were reportedly used to encourage participants to raise concerns in their communities and mobilize others through informal surveys and dialogue techniques.
Prosecutors argue that the ultimate goal was to launch coordinated protests on October 14, 2021, during a so-called commemorative event dubbed 'Ingabire Day.'
One key witness, Nzabandora Boniface, testified that he initially joined the training under the belief it was for English language instruction, only to discover its political intentions. Alarmed by the agenda, he decided to withdraw and later reported the matter to authorities.
The prosecution maintains that the sessions were orchestrated by Sibomana Sylvain, allegedly with the assistance of a woman named Assumpta, and that Ingabire herself was central to connecting and supporting both organizers.
It is alleged that she not only facilitated the planning but also financed the internet data used by participants during the training. Audio recordings from these sessions, presented in court, reportedly capture discussions on anti-government mobilization strategies, including how to frame narratives to agitate relocated citizens and informal traders.
In her defense, Ingabire denied organizing or endorsing the sessions, asserting that she merely put Sibomana in contact with Assumpta after the former complained of dental problems and requested help.
However, prosecutors dismissed this explanation, insisting that Ingabire's involvement went far beyond casual support. They argued that she was fully aware of the operation and closely followed its progress.
Journalist Théoneste Nsengimana also faces serious charges, including attempts to overthrow the government, spreading false information, and affiliation with a criminal group.
The prosecution claims that his media platforms, Umubavu TV and Umubavu.com, were used to amplify false and inflammatory content against the state.
This included allegations that singer Kizito Mihigo had been murdered rather than having died by suicide, and reports accusing the government of detaining individuals like Idamage Iryamugwiza Yvonne and Karasira Aimable without cause.
Nsengimana has denied all charges, stating that the information he broadcast was sourced from Ingabire's close associates, known as "Inkora IVU" (supporters of Ingabire Victoire Umuhoza).
Given the repeated references to Ingabire throughout the trial, the court concluded that it was essential to hear her account directly. However, after reviewing her testimony, the judges found her explanations insufficient and determined that there was enough evidence to justify a full investigation.
All accused individuals have pleaded not guilty and have requested their release, citing extended pretrial detention.
The prosecution, however, has called for life sentences for all defendants, except for Alphonse Mutabazi, who did not attend the training sessions, for whom a 20-year prison term is being sought.
The investigation into Victoire Ingabire is expected to conclude by July 3, 2025. The next hearing is scheduled for July 7, where the findings of the probe may shape the future direction of the case.
IGIHE
