Calling on the Government of the Republic of Rwanda to Release Paul Rusesabagina on Humanitarian Grounds

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 892, calling for the release of Paul Rusesabagina on humanitarian grounds. I am proud to co- lead this resolution alongside Representative Castro. I thank him for his leadership.

Paul Rusesabagina is a legal permanent resident of the United States who was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his heroic actions during the Rwandan genocide.

In August 2020, he was extrajudicially transferred from Texas to Kigali, Rwanda, by way of the United Arab Emirates, and subjected to an enforced disappearance for 3 days before the Government of the Republic of Rwanda acknowledged his detention.

He underwent trial proceedings for terrorism-related charges, and the American Bar Association has subsequently determined that his fair trial rights have been violated.

Pursuant to the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Act, the Department of State has determined that Mr. Rusesabagina was wrongfully detained.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the Rwandan Government to urgently work with the State Department and authorities in Europe to secure a path forward for his release and return to the United States.

It is also critically important that the Government of Rwanda grant access to his U.S.-based doctor to assess his health and well-being.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution and efforts to bring Paul Rusesabagina home to his family.

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Mrs. KIM of California. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution offered by Representative Castro and myself. I want to recognize Paul's family, especially his wife and children, who have tirelessly advocated for his release.

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