Rwanda says Rusesabagina of ‘Hotel Rwanda’ fame to be freed

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. She said Rusesabagina, a U.S. resident and Belgian citizen, is expected to be released on Saturday. 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.