🟢 RDF Sergeant Must Be Released Unconditionally: International Law Shows Borders Should Not Oppress Africans
September 24, 2025 — URN HITAMWONEZA
Sergeant SADIKI Emmanuel, a Rwandan soldier (RDF), was arrested by Burundian police after getting lost at the Gasenyi–Nemba border. He is currently held in Kirundo.
URN HITAMWONEZA calls for his unconditional release, because this issue stems from colonial borders and contradicts international agreements recognized across Africa and worldwide.
Key International Agreements
OUA Charter (1963)
- Recognized the maintenance of borders to prevent conflict, but stated they should be reviewed if they hinder African unity.
Abuja Treaty (1991)
- Established that Africa should build the African Economic Community, based on trade without barriers.
AfCFTA (2018)
- The African Continental Free Trade Area was created to allow people and goods to move freely across the continent.
East African Community Treaty (1999, Art. 104)
- The law on Free Movement of Persons, Labour, Services, and Right of Establishment requires member states to remove obstacles at borders.
UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966, Art. 12)
- Guarantees the right to move freely and enter any country for all individuals.
Conclusion
Given these laws, detaining SADIKI Emmanuel demonstrates that Africa remains bound by colonial legacies.
URN HITAMWONEZA urges his unconditional release, as a symbol of unity and freedom for all Africans.