NBA Under Fire for Partnering with Rwanda's Repressive Regime

The NBA is facing sharp criticism for its relationship with Rwanda's authoritarian leader, Paul Kagame, whose regime is widely condemned for brutal repression. U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) sent a letter to NBA commissioner Adam Silver, accusing the league of "putting profit over principle" by partnering with Kagame.

In the letter, The senators wrote that, "Anyone who dares to question Kagame's rule -- whether it be opposition candidates or the free press -- is jailed, disappeared or brutally murdered." The senators highlighted the NBA's hypocrisy in promoting social justice at home while ignoring Kagame's oppressive tactics abroad. Kagame, in power since 2000, has crushed dissent, silenced opposition, and allegedly orchestrated disappearances and killings. Yet, the NBA has maintained its partnership with his regime, central to launching the Basketball Africa League.

The senators demanded clarity on the NBA's relationship with Rwanda and urged the league to advocate for governance reforms rather than enabling a dictator who fosters a culture of fear. Critics argue that by continuing business with Kagame, the NBA legitimizes a ruler whose human rights abuses are far worse than those it opposes in the U.S.

The senators wrapped up their letter to Silver by stating, "Playing ball with dictators and brutal regimes should not be the NBA's business model. Instead, the league should use its influence to advocate for governance reforms, including respect for the rule of law."