Speaking at a commemoration event marking the 31st anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, held in the former Ntongwe Commune and surrounding areas, Prof. Dusingizemungu emphasized the role of colonial powers, particularly Belgium, in dividing Rwanda and instigating the hatred that ultimately fueled the genocide.

He asserted that these historical injustices, for which substantial evidence exists, must be addressed through legal means.

Senator Dusingizemungu stated that Rwanda’s history is replete with instances of actions that undermined national unity and cultural heritage, and that those responsible should face legal consequences.

He referenced Rwanda’s pre-colonial map to illustrate how Belgium allegedly betrayed the nation by stripping portions of its territory, which were annexed to Uganda and the present-day Democratic Republic of Congo, and by perpetrating acts of cruelty against the country.

“I believe the time has come to file a legal case,” he said. “We have legal experts who support us. We must find the courage to proceed with this case because we have professionals who can help us do it.”

Dr. Philbert Gakwenzire, President of IBUKA (the umbrella organization for Genocide survivors), supported this call, asserting that sufficient evidence exists to prosecute Belgium for inflicting profound harm upon Rwanda and for promoting divisive and discriminatory practices.

Dr. Gakwenzire stated that he has often reflected on the disastrous legacy of colonialism in Rwanda, the effects of which are still felt today.

“It is possible for them to be held accountable in court for what they did because what happened exceeds the limits of human reason,” he said. “I won’t even go into how they took away our sense of self — to the point that even today we look up to them as superior and consider them the ultimate example.”

Dr. Gakwenzire cited specific examples, drawing from historical documents, of evidence that could be used in a legal case against the colonial regime for inciting ethnic hatred in Rwanda.

He presented two cases from 1960 and 1961, years marked by widespread violence. In one report, the then Mayor of Kigali described incidents in Kicukiro, noting, “There is no real problem, except that Hutus celebrating their victory in the communes, beat Tutsis and raping Tutsi women.”

According to Dr. Gakwenzire, when this report reached the highest colonial administrator at the time, Colonel Guy Logiest, he reportedly praised the Hutus for their actions against the Tutsis and even justified the looting and consumption of Tutsi-owned cattle.

Dr. Gakwenzire concluded by stating that while those who committed these acts may live with shame, they must still be brought to justice.

Senator Dusingizemungu has called for legal action against Belgium over historical injustices in Rwanda.