00:00:00 IGIHE NETWORK KINYARWANDA ENGLISH FRANCAIS

Macron reaffirms France’s commitment to justice for victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi

By IGIHE
On 8 April 2025 at 10:37

French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s ongoing commitment to seeking justice for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Speaking on April 7, 2025, during the 31st commemoration of the tragic event, Macron emphasized France’s dedication to remembrance, truth, and justice.

"Today, France extends its deepest thoughts and support to the Rwandan people. France honors the remarkable resilience of the Rwandan people, who have risen and built a future based on reconciliation and unity," Macron stated, acknowledging the strength of Rwanda’s recovery.

Macron also reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the memory of the genocide, especially in the face of growing revisionism and intolerance.

"On this day of remembrance, I reaffirm my commitment to keeping the memory of this tragic event alive, in the face of the challenges posed by revisionism and intolerance," he said.

Macron further stated that the harrowing testimonies of survivors serve as a reminder of the urgent need to combat all forms of hatred.

Since 2019, April 7 has been officially recognized in France as a national day of commemoration for the Genocide against the Tutsi. This day reflects the desire to pass on the lessons of this painful chapter in history to future generations through education, historical research, and justice.

In line with France’s commitment to justice, Macron assured that the country’s legal system continues to pursue genocide perpetrators who reside in France.

"In line with my commitment, justice continues to move forward to prosecute and try the alleged perpetrators of the genocide who reside in France. Several major trials have taken place and justice has been served," he affirmed.

The French judicial system has prosecuted several individuals involved in the genocide, and many have been convicted.

Among the notable cases are the trials of Capt. Pascal Simbikangwa, Laurent Bucyibaruta (former Prefect of Gikongoro), Dr. Eugène Rwamucyo, Dr. Sosthène Munyemana, Philippe Hategekimana, Octavien Ngenzi, and Tito Barahira, all of whom were found guilty and sentenced to various prison terms.

In 2020, France also made headlines with the arrest of Félicien Kabuga, a key financier of the genocide. Kabuga was arrested and handed over to the United Nations court for prosecution.

France’s efforts to ensure justice extend beyond the direct perpetrators. In 2024, Charles Onana, a French national of Cameroonian descent, was convicted for genocide denial. He was fined €8,400 and ordered to pay €11,000 in damages.

Macron also shared that the French prosecution service is continuing to pursue 40 cases of individuals suspected of involvement in the Genocide against the Tutsi. "These efforts reflect our country’s unwavering determination to fight impunity and forgetfulness," he said.

French courts continue to handle genocide-related cases, with an average of two such cases being processed each year, further demonstrating France’s commitment to justice for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s ongoing commitment to seeking justice for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

Advertisement

YOUR OPINION ABOUT THIS ARTICLE

RULES AND REGULATIONS
Kwamamaza