Rwanda frees Paul Rusesabagina of ‘Hotel Rwanda’ fame

By CARA ANNA and IGNATIUS SSUUNA
Associated Press

KIGALI, Rwanda (AP) — Rwanda’s government has commuted the 25-year sentence of Paul Rusesabagina, who inspired the film “Hotel Rwanda” for saving hundreds of countrymen from genocide but was convicted of terrorism offenses years later in a widely criticized trial. Government spokeswoman Yolande Makolo told The Associated Press Friday that the sentence was commuted by presidential order after a request for clemency. U.S. officials say Rusesabagina arrived late Friday at the home of Qatar’s ambassador in Rwanda. The case had been described by the United States and others as unfair. Makolo noted the “constructive role of the U.S. government” in creating conditions toward the release.