The organizer of the Miss Rwanda beauty pageant was sentenced to five years in prison on Friday for rape and solicitation of sexual favors, despite being acquitted of these charges just 10 months ago.
Dieudonne Ishimwe, formerly known as Prince Kid, a former musician, was taken into custody in April of the previous year on allegations of sexually assaulting former beauty pageant contestants.
In December, a judge acquitted the 36-year-old, citing insufficient evidence, and ordered his release. However, the prosecution subsequently filed an appeal.
On Friday, a Kigali court convicted him of rape and solicitation of sexual favors but acquitted him of the charge of sexual harassment.
Prosecutors had initially requested a 16-year prison sentence; however, the three-judge panel determined a five-year term, citing that it was the first time Mr. Ishimwe had faced criminal charges.
Ishimwe, who tied the knot with a former Miss Rwanda earlier this year, was additionally fined two million Rwandan francs ($1,640).
Neither Ishimwe nor his legal representatives were present in court for the verdict.
Ishimwe’s lawyer, Emeline Nyembo, informed media that they had not yet made a decision on whether to pursue an appeal.
“I have not had the opportunity to meet with my client. Once I have consulted with Mr Ishimwe and discussed the matter with him, we will determine our course of action.”
Ishimwe’s arrest resulted in the suspension of the annual Miss Rwanda contest, previously promoted as the nation’s premier beauty pageant.
According to its website, Miss Rwanda made its debut in the global Miss World competition in 2016.
