Cyuma Hassan
Independent journalist and YouTuber
Serving a seven-year sentence imposed for his journalismDieudonné Niyonsenga, known to his audience as Cyuma Hassan, ran one of Rwanda's most popular independent YouTube channels before he was arrested during the COVID-19 lockdown and sentenced to seven years in prison for reporting the truth.
Cyuma Hassan, whose real name is Dieudonné Niyonsenga, is one of Rwanda's best known independent journalists. Through his YouTube channel, which reached millions of viewers, he reported critically on the Rwandan government and gave a platform to voices that state media ignore.
He was arrested in April 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 lockdown, after reporting on the conduct of local officials enforcing the emergency measures. He was initially acquitted in 2021, but the prosecution appealed and in November 2021 the High Court convicted him of assault, obstructing police officers and practicing journalism without a press card, sentencing him to seven years in prison and a heavy fine.
Human rights monitors, including United Nations experts, have documented that he was tortured in detention and have condemned his prosecution as criminal punishment for journalism itself. The Global Campaign for Rwandans' Human Rights demands his immediate release and an independent investigation into his treatment in custody.
History
2020
Arrested during the COVID-19 lockdown after reporting on the conduct of local officials.
2021
Acquitted at first instance, then convicted on appeal and sentenced to seven years in prison in November.
2024
United Nations experts and human rights organisations document torture allegations and call for his release.
Today
He remains in prison for his reporting. We demand his immediate and unconditional release.
Campaigns & Statements
Our campaigns, statements and reports connected to Cyuma Hassan.
Weaponisation of the Genocide Against the Tutsi: A Tool of Oppression and a Barrier to Freedom
The Rwandan government uses the memory of the genocide against the Tutsi to silence critics, jail opponents and police public debate. Join our campaign demanding an end to the weaponisation of the genocide and full freedom of expression in Rwanda.
Free Cyuma Hassan
A campaign for the release of journalist Dieudonné Niyonsenga, known as Cyuma Hassan, sentenced to seven years in prison for his reporting and tortured behind bars. His only offence was journalism.