Rwanda Bar Association (RBA) has elected six members to its disciplinary committee, along with one member to the council, to serve a three-year term.
The elections, held at Kigali Convention Center on October 17, saw seven new lawyers elected to replace those whose mandates had ended.
The elected members of the disciplinary committee are Jean Bosco Rusanganwa, Clotilde Rwimp, Stéphanie Sebaziga, Angèle Buzayire, Johnson Kabera, and Ghislaine Niyongira.
RBA President, Moïse Nkundabarashi, said the newly elected members hold key positions that will influence the professional conduct of lawyers across the country.
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"We know it is a difficult task, but it is possible when people work together. The fact that you have chosen to serve reflects a strong message,” Nkundabarashi told the new committee members.
He emphasized that the committee’s focus will be on resolving disputes among lawyers through mediation rather than punitive measures, in line with the national policy of promoting alternative dispute resolution.
“The priority now is to focus on mediation, so that issues can be resolved without resorting to suspension or expulsion. However, in cases of serious breaches, appropriate decisions will still be taken,” Nkundabarashi added.
One of the newly elected members, Buzayire, said “I am grateful for the trust my fellow lawyers have placed in me through their votes. It is something that truly strengthens us as a professional community.”
"One of the core values of our profession is discipline, and that is precisely why this commission exists.”
Reflecting on the work of her predecessors, Buzayire added, “The previous commission fulfilled its mandate, and we build upon that foundation. Our calling is to continue ensuring the integrity and proper conduct of lawyers, not just by enforcing discipline, but by guiding and advising our colleagues to uphold the highest ethical standards in both their professional and social lives.”
In addition, Delphine Uwanyirigira was elected to the RBA council member.
Established in 2013, the Disciplinary Committee of the Rwanda Bar Association oversees the professional conduct of lawyers, investigates misconduct allegations, and determines appropriate disciplinary measures when necessary.
Its responsibilities include ensuring ethical compliance, mediating internal disputes, and, where warranted, imposing sanctions such as suspension or expulsion.
