Football
Andrew Oryada, Special to ESPN 6y

Rwanda football officials released on bail after bribery allegations

Two Rwanda Football Federation officials have been released on bail after being detained following allegations of bribery, according to FERWAFA Communications Manager Bonnie Mugabe.

Secretary General François Régis Uwayezu and Commissioner for Competitions Eric Ruhamiriza were arrested and placed under investigation by the Rwanda Investigative Bureau after allegations were made by Namibian referee Jackson Pavaza on September 11.

Speaking to the Namibian press, Pavaza alleged that the two officials attempted to bribe him and his fellow referees ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Ivory Coast in Kigali on September 9.

The Elephants won the match 2-1.

"I can confirm that Uwayezu and Ruhamiriza were released on bail on Monday," Mugabe told KweséESPN, "but I cannot comment on any issues as the matter is now with the [Intermediate court of Nyarugenge]."

The Rwandan Football Federation have denied the allegation, insisting that the confusion came about due to miscommunication between themselves and the match officials.

Rwanda are bottom of AFCON qualifying Group H after losing 2-1 away to Central Africa Republic and at home against the Ivory Coast. Guinea top the group with six points from two games.

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