In a historic move, Mukantaganzwa Domitile has been appointed as the President of Rwanda’s Supreme Court, becoming the second woman in the country’s history to hold this esteemed position. She succeeds Faustin Ntezilyayo, whose five-year term concluded without reappointment, despite his eligibility for a second term under Rwandan law. The decision has not been accompanied by an official explanation.
Mukantaganzwa follows in the footsteps of Aloysia Cyanzayire, the first woman to lead the Supreme Court. Her appointment underscores Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to promoting gender representation in leadership roles across public institutions.
Mukantaganzwa brings a wealth of experience to the role. She gained national and international recognition for her leadership of the Gacaca courts from 2003 to 2012, where she played a pivotal role in addressing the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. These community-based courts delivered justice while fostering reconciliation. Additionally, Mukantaganzwa contributed to drafting the 2003 constitution, a cornerstone of Rwanda’s governance framework.
She will be supported by Hitiyaremye Alphonse, who has been appointed Vice President of the Supreme Court. Hitiyaremye, a seasoned judge at the court, will provide valuable expertise in this new leadership chapter.
