Rusesabagina case: Hotel Rwanda 'hero' denied bail

A court in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, has denied bail to Paul Rusesabagina, the man who inspired Hollywood film Hotel Rwanda about the 1994 genocide.

It depicted his efforts to save hundreds of Tutsis at his hotel during the 1994 genocide.

He is now facing 13 charges including terrorism and murder, in connection with his alleged support of deadly attacks by a rebel group.

He has made no comment on the charges.

Last week, he said that though he was part of a group that formed the National Liberation Front rebel movement it was “not for terrorism activities”.

Mr Rusesabagina had appealed for bail on the basis of his health and the lack of evidence.

But the judge said that he represented a flight risk, according to an independent journalist who was allowed into the court.

His family allege he was kidnapped in Dubai and taken to Rwanda. The authorities have not said where he was arrested.

His five children told a virtual press conference on Thursday that he had been denied an independent team of lawyers.

“And we know that he was tortured to say what they want and have prepared,” said his daughter Anaise Kanimba.