On Thursday morning, Nshuti Divine Muheto, the reigning Miss Rwanda 2022, faced Kicukiro Primary Court on charges related to driving under the influence, driving without a license, and a hit-and-run incident.
Muheto, accompanied by two defense attorneys, stood trial following her arrest on October 29, 2024, after allegedly exceeding legal alcohol limits while driving.
Rwanda's Prosecutor’s
Office spokesperson, Faustin Nkusi, confirmed that Muheto’s blood alcohol
concentration was at 4.00, far above the legal limit of 0.8. Nkusi explained
that Muheto had also damaged public infrastructure and fled the scene,
intensifying the charges against her. Muheto’s legal team countered by claiming
she held a provisional driver’s permit, arguing it was an error rather than a
crime.
In her defense, Muheto
admitted to driving under the influence and offered a public apology. She
further clarified that, after the accident, she left the scene only to ensure
her safety as bystanders gathered, some attempting to take photographs. Her
attorneys argued that her departure was not to evade authorities but to avoid
harassment.
The prosecution, however,
remained firm, arguing that Muheto had misled authorities upon their arrival
and attempted to erase evidence, which constituted fleeing. They dismissed her
defense that she left for personal safety, maintaining that the law doesn’t
allow such excuses for avoiding immediate responsibility.
Reflecting on her 11 days
in detention, Muheto said it had taught her valuable lessons, and she expressed
a strong commitment to avoid similar actions in the future. Her legal team
emphasized her public value, citing her national advocacy work against child
malnutrition and requested leniency.
The court’s final verdict
on the case is scheduled for November 6, 2024, with the prosecution
recommending a sentence of one year and eight months and a fine of 220,000
Rwandan Francs.
Miss Muheto Divine faces
1 year, 8-month jail request
Kin
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