# Rwanda Refugee Appeals Tribunal Begins Hearings

> Rwanda's new refugee appeals tribunal starts hearings after legal delays.
- Title: Rwanda Refugee Appeals Tribunal Begins Hearings · Allafrica
- Summary: Rwanda's new refugee appeals tribunal starts hearings after legal delays. Rwanda's refugee appeals tribunal began hearings in October 2026 after legal…
- Keywords: rwanda, refugee appeals tribunal, asylum seekers, refugee status, immigration, dgie, unhcr, legal framework, news, world, politics, Refugee
- Source: Allafrica — https://allafrica.com/stories/202610220025.html
- Published: 2026-10-22T05:03:07+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: rwanda, refugee appeals tribunal, asylum seekers, refugee status, immigration, dgie, unhcr, legal framework, news, world, politics
## Tribunal established in 2024
The tribunal was legally established on April 19, 2024, under Law No. 042/01 of 19/04/2024.

> The tribunal has been in existence since 2024, April 19
## Tribunal's mandate
It reviews asylum applications rejected by the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE).
## Why separate tribunal?
The previous system involved government institutions including the Prime Minister's Office, which raised independence concerns.
## Two presidents structure
The tribunal has two presidents and four other members to operate two benches simultaneously.
## Case hearing process
Appeals may be heard by three-member or single-member benches with special procedures for asylum cases.
## Expected workload
At least 20 cases expected in first week, with potential backlog from delayed appeals processing.
## Appeals submission
Appeals submitted through Immigration Case Management System (ICEMS) with document verification.
## Legal support available
UNHCR and partners may assist with legal costs, and interpretation services for diverse languages.
## Decision timeline
Tribunal must issue decisions within six months, with appeals to High Court for review.
## Key takeaway

Rwanda's refugee appeals tribunal began hearings in October 2026 after legal delays, with at least 20 cases expected in its first week.