Blogger Abraham Mutai set to be award for fighting for the release of a political prisoner in Brussels, Belgium.
In an invite by the International Women’s Network for Democracy and Peace (IwnDP), it was noted that Mutai’s presence is mandatory as he is the key speaker.
“His presence is mandatory because he is the 2019 winner of the prize. Besides, he is our key speaker and his presentation is titled “Peace and democracy in Africa in the 21st century: an overview,” read the invite signed by IwnDP coordinator Marcelline Nyiranduwamungu.
Mutai led a social media campaign #FreeDianeRwigara which led to the release of Rwanda President Paul Kagame’s critic Diane Rwigara and her mother Adeline Rwigara on October 5, 2018.
“Diane Rwigara and Her Mother Adeline Rwigara have been released on bail. The power of your voices. Power of social media. Power of organizing. I want to Congratulate Paul Kagame, Rwandan President for listening to the voices calling for #FreeDianeRwigara. It is a win for everyone,” the blogger said.
Daine, a women’s rights activist was apprehended on September 24, 2017 after she was accused of incitement and fraud. This was after she tried running for the top seat.
Last year September, Kagame pardoned opposition leader Victoire Ingabire and singer Kizito Mihigo.
Ms Ingabire, leader of the unregistered FDU-Inkingiwas jailed in 2010 was serving a 15 year jail sentence but was released after serving 8 years. Mihigo was serving a 10 year jail sentence in 2015.