The Rwanda government has suspended the Miss Rwanda beauty pageant over alleged sexual abuse of contestants by the organizers.
The Rwandan Ministry of Youth and Culture made the pronouncement today Monday, May 9, 2022.
“Based on ongoing investigation by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau into the CEO of Rwanda Inspiration Backup, over alleged sexual abuse of Miss Rwanda contestants, the Ministry of Youth and Culture informs the general public that the Miss Rwanda beauty pageant has been suspended pending completion of an investigation,” reads the communique signed by Minister Rosemary Mbabazi.
On April 26, a case of sexual abuse was opened by the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB).
The case involves the person at the helm of the Miss Rwanda Organization, one Dieudonne Ishimwe, a.k.a. Prince Kid, who was arrested over the sexual abuse of girls who participated in Miss Rwanda over the years.
His case reached prosecution last week with three charges: rape, soliciting sexual favors and sexual harassment, according to preliminary investigation.
The Rwandan media reported that the RIB confirmed arrest of a second person in relation to this case – Miss Rwanda 2017, Iradukunda Elsa who is accused of tempering with investigation on the first case.
“She is accused of forgery and tempering with investigation related to the case of Ishimwe Dieudonne. She is detained at Remera RIB station.”
The Rwandan authorities said the investigations continue, and the case will be handed to prosecution in due course.
