KIGALI — Rwandan authorities have confirmed the death of Aimable Karasira, who died on Wednesday after consuming an excessive amount of medication prescribed by his doctor.
In an official statement, the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) said Karasira was immediately taken to the hospital after self-medicated drug overdose, but later passed away despite medical intervention.
“Karasira was taken to the hospital after consuming more than the recommended amount of medication prescribed by his doctor,” the Rwanda Correctional Service stated while confirming his death.
Authorities indicated that Karasira had recently shown signs of mental illness, suicidal thoughts, and emotional instability. During an interview with a YouTuber, Karasira stated, “I do not encourage anyone to commit suicide, but for me, because I do not have any children or a spouse, I think about killing myself at any time.”
He had been receiving medical attention. Officials noted that healthcare services had been made available to him as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the wellbeing of all individuals under state custody and professional supervision.
The country has invested significantly in strengthening mental health services in the years following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, recognizing the long-term psychological impact that trauma can have on individuals and communities. The government has continued to expand counseling services, psychiatric care, and community-based support programs across the country.
Karasira had become publicly known through statements described as genocide denial and through unlawful social media commentary. Government institutions have consistently maintained that freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and without promoting divisionism, genocide ideology, or genocide denial. The public continues to be educated on the importance of avoiding misinformation that could undermine national unity, security, and peacebuilding efforts.
Rwandan authorities have not released additional details regarding the medical investigation, but officials stated that more information will be shared as it becomes available in the coming days.
