The Rwanda Premier League matches played between October 24 and 26, 2025, featured a series of notable results and controversial moments. The games began with Gicumbi FC defeating Gasogi United and concluded with Marine FC losing at home 2-1 to Police FC in Rubavu.
Several matches were marked by refereeing errors, prompting teams and league members to appeal to the Refereeing Commission for justice. Among the clubs that raised concerns were Bugesera FC, Amagaju FC, and APR FC, all requesting explanations and fair treatment.
One of the most debated matches was between Bugesera FC and AS Muhanga on October 25 in Bugesera. The Refereeing Commission reviewed the game using the referee’s report and match footage and found that in the 20th minute, AS Muhanga goalkeeper Hategekimana Bonheur handled the ball outside the goal line.
This act constituted a ‘Denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity’ (DOGSO) offense, which should have resulted in a penalty and a red card. However, the referees allowed play to continue. Later in the match, in the 45th minute of the first half, the ball struck the referee’s leg, but the game was not stopped, leading to a goal for AS Muhanga. As a result, central referee KWIZERA Olivier was suspended for five weeks, while assistant referee Mbonigena Seraphin received a four-week suspension.
Another controversial game took place on October 24 when Rayon Sports hosted Amagaju FC at Kigali Pele Stadium. Amagaju FC protested a decision against their player, Rwema Amza, who received a red card in the 23rd minute for an alleged foul.
After reviewing the match footage and the referee’s report, the Refereeing Commission concluded that the referee had been well-positioned to observe the incident and that the decision was correct. Similarly, in the October 25 clash between Kiyovu Sports and APR FC, APR’s appeal regarding a denied penalty and a red card issued to Ronald Ssekiganda was reviewed, with the Commission confirming that the referee’s decisions were proper.
Refereeing continues to be a source of concern for fans and Rwanda Premier League members. Nevertheless, league authorities and FERWAFA have emphasized that corrective measures are being implemented, including the consideration of VAR technology in the near future. These steps aim to improve officiating, reduce errors, and ensure fairness, highlighting the league’s commitment to maintaining integrity in Rwandan football.
