Uganda’s Foreign Minister Hon. Sam Kutesa handed over thirteen Rwandan nationals who have incarcerated in Kampala prisons facing several charges including possession of firearms.
The handover occurred Tuesday at Serena Hotel in Kampala, and Ambassador Frank Mugambage received the criminals on behalf of Rwanda government.
The released are; Nturishwa Maboko, John Bosco Abomugisha, Okigwiriza Nassis, Okwetengire, Mukamazima Christine, Zangyeyesu, Eric, Awokuremeye Alifonsi, Gitufu Bosco, Ngaruye Jotham, Ngaruye JohnBosco, Suleman Kabayija, Nzabonimpa Fidel.
Kutesa reminded Kigali that the release doesn’t mean these Rwandans are innocent but rather a move by Uganda to show sign of good will in repairing its relations with Rwanda.
“We want to clear the way to normalize relations. We are not saying people are innocent,” he said.
Uganda urged the Rwandan government to ensure the released Rwandans never return to Uganda to commit the crimes for which they had been arrested.
On what Uganda has lost, Kutesa said a lot has been lost; for instance, the closure of Gatuna/Katuna has affected trade and commerce.
“I think it is not good for integration,” he said. “Both sides have lost”.