The Spokesperson of the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, has emphasized that sports are not an isolated island where those involved can hide from justice after committing crimes.
Speaking on Radio Rwanda’s sports program Urubuga rw’Imikino on September 17, Dr. Murangira addressed the recent arrest of the Secretary General of the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA), Kalisa Adolphe, commonly known as “Camarade.”
Kalisa was arrested alongside Tuyisenge Eric, alias “Kantona.” The two are under investigation for alleged crimes including embezzlement, corruption, and the use of forged documents.
They are being held at RIB stations in Remera and Kicukiro. According to RIB, the investigation is ongoing, though Kalisa’s case file has already been submitted to the National Public Prosecution Authority.
Dr. Murangira explained that Kalisa was arrested on September 4 following preliminary investigations that established serious grounds to suspect him of wrongdoing. The file was then forwarded to prosecutors on September 9, 2025, for further review. Prosecutors are expected to either pursue the case in court or dismiss it if evidence is found insufficient.
While refraining from giving detailed commentary on the case of Kalisa and Tuyisenge since investigations are still underway, Dr. Murangira underlined that sports cannot be considered a safe haven for anyone attempting to escape the arm of justice. “Whenever someone is prosecuted, it must serve as a lesson to others. The lesson here, especially in the world of sports, is to understand that sports are not an island beyond the reach of justice,” he stressed.
He further noted that whenever there are reasonable suspicions of a crime, RIB has both the authority and the responsibility to investigate, and those implicated by evidence must face justice.
Dr. Murangira reminded sports officials that Rwanda’s participation in both domestic and international competitions must be managed with integrity, free from practices such as embezzlement, misuse of funds, corruption, favoritism, and other forms of misconduct. “All sports competitions, whether hosted in Rwanda or abroad, must be organized lawfully and with honesty. Those responsible are required by law to avoid criminal acts such as misappropriation of funds, corruption, nepotism, and abuse of office,” he said.
He also pointed out that crimes like embezzlement and corruption are not subject to a statute of limitations, meaning that individuals may still be prosecuted regardless of when the crimes were committed if sufficient evidence emerges.
Dr. Murangira concluded by commending the cooperation of citizens in the fight against crime, particularly in sports, and urged the public to continue sharing information. He emphasized that every Rwandan has a civic duty to report crimes whenever and wherever they occur so they can be prevented or punished accordingly.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
