Anne Rwigara: Sister Of Rwandan President Paul Kagame's Critic Mysteriously Dies

• Anne Rwigara died at her California home in the United States of America on Thursday, December 28
• Her mother, Adeline Rwigara, said Anne died mysteriously, as she only complained of stomach pain
• Anne’s sister, Diane Rwigara, has been a key political opponent of Rwandan President Paul Kagame since 2017

Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Anne Rwigara, a vocal figure in Rwanda's opposition, has died mysteriously in the United States of America.

The BBC reported that Anne died on Thursday, December 28, in California, shortly after experiencing excruciating stomach pains.

What Anne Rwigara's mother said

Annes' mother, Adeline Rwigara, expressed shock at the death of her daughter, saying she was not sick.

"She was not sick. It's just a matter of days. It is just a mystery," Adeline said.

Anne, aged 41, was the daughter of the late magnate Assinapol Rwigara who also died in a mysterious road accident in 2015.

Having acquired US nationality, Anne Rwigara had been living outside Rwanda for an extended period, primarily in the USA and Belgium, where she had relatives.

The Rwigara family has been critical of President Paul Kagame's administration, and at one point, Anne and her mother spent a year in jail in Rwanda over alleged tax evasion and electoral malpractices.

In May 2017, Anne’s sister, Diane Rwigara, announced she would run in the presidential election against President Kagame.

However, the National Electoral Commission stopped Diane from participating in the election, ruling that the hundreds of signatures she submitted to validate her candidature were forged.

How netizens reacted to Anne's death

Following Anne's death, netizens flocked to social media to mourn her, saying she was a symbol of resilience and courage.

Churchil Omondi:

"On the 7th day when God was resting, the devil sneaked in and created African Leaders. Heartless, inhumane and unkind. Rest In Peace, Anne Rwigara. Justice!"

Carine Kanimba:

"Anne Rwigara was a symbol of resilience & courage, facing oppression with unwavering strength. Weeks ago, I had the privilege of telling her how her relentless fight for justice after her father's tragic murder by Rwanda’s dictator inspired our family's struggle for justice."

KIPRONO

"Maybe Murkomen was right after all for calling out Rwanda and Kagame, the murder of opposition leader Anne Rwigara is chilling, it shouldn't be happening at this age."