ORDINARY COURTS

The Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is the highest court of the land. Its territorial Jurisdiction covers the entire territory of the Republic of Rwanda. It is placed under its Chief Justice’s authority, currently, the Chief Justice is Hon. Domitilla MUKANTAGANZWA.

The essential mission of the Supreme Court is to ensure equitable law enforcement according to the logic of complementarity of powers in a democratic society. The Judicial Power cannot therefore be considered like an entity which is separate from social life of which it is the regulator.

In an effort to achieve these objectives, the role of our jurisdictions, notably the Supreme Court, is not less important. We are convinced that non corrupt justice which is fast and effective constitutes a solution to the most pressing challenges to the people of Rwanda. It is each one of our judges’ duty.

The Court of Appeal

The Court of Appeal adjudicates on appeal level cases handled by the High court, the Commercial High Court and the Military High Court in accordance with the relevant laws.

The High Court 

The High Court is based in the City of Kigali and has five chambers located in Musanze, Nyanza, Rwamagana and Rusizi which have both original and appellate jurisdictions in civil, criminal and administrative matters. The fifth chamber is the specialized chamber dealing with International Crimes.

Intermediate Courts

There are 12 intermediate courts in the country. The Intermediate Courts have both original and appellate jurisdictions in civil, criminal and administrative matters.

Primary Courts 

There are 41 Primary Courts and they rule over original civil and criminal matters as defined in the law that determines the Organization, functioning and competence of courts.

SPECIALISED COURTS:

Commercial Courts

The Commercial court has original Jurisdiction over commercial cases. The Commercial High Court has the appellate jurisdiction over commercial cases.

Military Courts

Military courts constitute one category of specialized courts established by the Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda. Judges must be military personnel. The military justice system is composed of two military courts i.e. the Military High Court and the Military Tribunal.