Miss Muheto Receives Three-Month Suspended Sentence Over One Year

Muheto, 21, was initially facing nearly two years of imprisonment as requested by the prosecution, which cited multiple violations. However, the court determined there were no substantial grounds for a longer sentence. Her charges included driving under the influence, operating a vehicle without a license, causing property damage, and fleeing the scene of an accident.

According to court records, Muheto admitted to driving with a blood alcohol level of 4.0, significantly exceeding the allowable limit of 0.8, without a valid driver’s license. The incident occurred after Muheto left a popular Kigali bar, resulting in an accident involving her Kia vehicle. The court ruled her guilty of unlicensed driving but dismissed the charge of fleeing the scene.

In addition to her suspended sentence, Muheto was fined 190,000 Rwandan Francs. This was not her first incident; in September 2023, she was involved in another accident where her car sustained serious damage. At the time, Rwanda National Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rukitanga advised her to obtain a driver’s license and exercise greater responsibility.

"Driving under the influence is as dangerous as risking one’s own life, and even more so when driving without a license," ACP Rutikanga remarked. He emphasized, "The danger is not only to oneself but also to others on the road."

Muheto first gained national attention after winning Miss Rwanda 2022, an achievement that elevated her profile significantly. However, the Miss Rwanda competition was suspended by the government after allegations of harassment against its organizer. Efforts are reportedly underway to reform the event to ensure the safety and dignity of future contestants.

Miss Muheto, after 15 days in custody, receives a three-month suspended sentence for one year