Paul Rusesabagina, Inspiration for ‘Hotel Rwanda’, Receives Clemency from Rwandan Government

Paul Rusesabagina, the man who inspired the Hollywood film “Hotel Rwanda” and saved hundreds of his countrymen from genocide, has had his sentence commuted by the Rwandan government.

Rwandan government spokeswoman Yolande Makolo announced on Friday that President Paul Kagame had granted Rusesabagina clemency and commuted his 25-year sentence. She noted the constructive role of the US government in creating conditions for dialogue on the issue, as well as the facilitation provided by the State of Qatar.

Rusesabagina was found guilty of terrorism-related charges in September 2021 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. However, Makolo clarified that the commutation of sentence does not extinguish the underlying conviction.

Rusesabagina is best known for his heroic efforts to save hundreds of Rwandans from the 1994 genocide. His story was made into a Hollywood movie, “Hotel Rwanda,” which was released in 2004 and nominated for three Academy Awards.

The commutation of Rusesabagina’s sentence has been welcomed by many, who have criticized the trial as unfair and politically motivated. It is hoped that the clemency granted by President Kagame will help to bring closure to this long-running saga.