The man portrayed as a hero in a Hollywood movie about the Rwandan genocide has been charged with terrorism, murder and other serious crimes.
Paul Rusesabagina, who denies the charges, was brought to court under heavy security in the Rwandan capital, Kigali.
He is the leader of an opposition group which is said to have an armed wing which stages attacks on Rwanda.
Mr Rusesabagina, who’s a strong critic of President Paul Kagame, had been living abroad.
An ethnic Hutu, he became well known after the 2004 film depicted his efforts to save hundreds of Tutsis at a hotel where he was a manager.
