The year 2019 marks the 25th commemoration of the Genocide Against the Tutsi perpetrated between April and July 1994. As every year, various activities and events are organized not only to remember but also to discuss on the causes and consequences of the genocide, with the purpose of devising measures to prevent such a tragedy to happen again. It is in this context that, on 9th April 2019, the management and staff of Rwanda Association Local Government Authorities (RALGA) gathered to discuss on the context of the preparation and execution of the Genocide Against the Tutsi, 25 years back.
Understanding the background of the Genocide : 30 years of hate promotion with terrible consequences
As highlighted by Mr. Vincent RUTAREMARA and Mr. Jean Bosco RUSHINGABIGWI in their presentation, it took 30 years to build and spread the genocide ideology. Since 1959, extremist politicians constructed a narrative designating the Tutsi as invaders, dangerous people who cannot be trusted but rather should be eliminated. It is in this context that the 10 Commandments for the Hutus were published by Joseph HABYARIMANA GITERA, which were embraced by and inspired many others such as Gregoire KAYIBANDA, leader of the PARMEHUTU political party.
The narrative was spread country wide and at all levels through sensitization campaigns targeting opinion leaders but also the mass through meetings and the media. In addition to the genocide ideology spreading, practical preparations for the execution of the genocide were made such as the purchase of 581 tons of machetes by Mr Felicien KABUGA, military training and arming the militias well in advance of the downing of the plane carrying the President of the Republic. As a consequence, the Tutsis were harassed and killed, with many fleeing the country since 1959, and this culminated with the execution of the genocide in 1994.
Lessons learnt and way forward
After the presentation, participants shared their own experience and analysis of the situation which led to the Genocide Against the Tutsi in 1994. The open minded debates showed that the healing process is well advanced. However, participants were cautioned –especially youth- on efforts by deniers who still spread hate messages on social media in particular.
In her intervention, RALGA’s Deputy Secretary General, Ms. Francine TUMUSHIME, brought the attention of participants on the need to keep discussions on the background of the Genocide to give chance to the younger generation to understand, heal and contribute to the Never Again noble cause.
On his side, Mr Ladislas NGENDAHIMANA, RALGA’s Secretary General concluded the session by calling colleagues to keep on playing their role in the process of rebuilding a united and prosperous Rwanda.
