Newly Elected Members Aim to Enhance Professional Conduct Among Lawyers
The Rwanda Bar Association (RBA) has recently elected six members to its disciplinary committee, alongside one member to the council, for a three-year term. The elections took place on October 17 at the Kigali Convention Center, marking a significant moment for the legal profession in Rwanda.
The newly elected members of the disciplinary committee include Jean Bosco Rusanganwa, Clotilde Rwimp, Stéphanie Sebaziga, Angèle Buzayire, Johnson Kabera, and Ghislaine Niyongira. These individuals are set to replace outgoing members whose terms have concluded.
RBA President Moïse Nkundabarashi expressed confidence in the newly elected committee members, stating that they hold crucial positions that will greatly influence the professional conduct of lawyers across the nation. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the importance of collaboration in fulfilling their responsibilities.
“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 remarked during the election ceremony.
One of the key focuses of the new committee will be on resolving disputes among lawyers through mediation rather than punitive measures. This approach aligns with the national policy promoting alternative dispute resolution. Nkundabarashi highlighted that the priority is to concentrate on mediation to resolve issues without resorting to suspension or expulsion, although serious breaches will still warrant appropriate disciplinary actions.
Angèle Buzayire, one of the newly elected members, expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her by her colleagues. “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,” she stated.
Buzayire further emphasized the importance of discipline within the legal profession, noting, “One of the core values of our profession is discipline, and that is precisely why this commission exists.” She reflected on the achievements of her predecessors, stating that the previous commission fulfilled its mandate, and her team aims to build upon that foundation.
In addition to the disciplinary committee elections, Delphine Uwanyirigira was elected as a member of the RBA council. The council plays a vital role in overseeing the activities of the RBA and ensuring that the interests of the legal profession are upheld.
The Disciplinary Committee of the Rwanda Bar Association was established in 2013 and is responsible for overseeing the professional conduct of lawyers in the country. Its duties include investigating allegations of misconduct, ensuring ethical compliance, mediating internal disputes, and imposing sanctions such as suspension or expulsion when necessary.
As the newly elected committee members embark on their term, they are tasked with not only enforcing discipline but also guiding and advising their colleagues to uphold the highest ethical standards in both their professional and social lives. This dual approach aims to foster a culture of integrity within the legal profession in Rwanda.
Key Points
- Rwanda Bar Association elects new disciplinary committee members.
- Focus on mediation to resolve disputes among lawyers.
- New committee members emphasize the importance of professional conduct.
- Delphine Uwanyirigira elected to the RBA council.
- Disciplinary Committee established in 2013 to oversee lawyer conduct.
Sources: Lawyers disciplinary committee challenged to prioritize mediation
