Miss Rwanda arrested for drink-driving after accident

Divine Muheto, the reigning Miss Rwanda, has been arrested for drink-driving and operating a vehicle without a license. Rwandan police reported that Muheto caused damage to infrastructure during the incident and subsequently fled the scene. While details about injuries remain unclear, this arrest marks her second offense for driving under the influence.

The news of her arrest was confirmed by police on Tuesday, following days of speculation about her involvement in a collision. A court in Kigali is set to begin hearings on her case this Thursday, as reported by local media.

Muheto gained national prominence after winning the Miss Rwanda pageant in 2022, but the competition has been suspended since then due to allegations of sexual misconduct against its organizers. The pageant’s hiatus has left a significant void in the country’s beauty industry.

In Rwanda, drink-driving is a serious offense, carrying penalties that include a fine of 150,000 Rwandan francs (approximately $110 or £85) and up to five days in police custody. In recent years, Rwandan authorities have ramped up enforcement of traffic laws, resulting in thousands of arrests for similar violations.

In 2022, the issue of drink-driving reached the political arena when a member of parliament publicly apologized and resigned after being caught driving under the influence. The Rwandan government has stated that stricter enforcement of traffic regulations has led to a notable decline in fatal road accidents.

Muheto has not publicly commented on her arrest, and it remains to be seen how this incident will impact her reputation and future endeavors. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case has attracted attention not only for its implications for Muheto’s career but also for its reflection of the ongoing efforts to address road safety and responsible behavior among public figures in Rwanda.