In recent weeks, there have been reports of genocide survivors being targeted across various parts of the country.
These survivors have faced intimidation through unsigned documents, and some have had their property damaged or destroyed.
The growing trend of violence has been addressed by the country's leadership, which has emphasized the need to hold those responsible accountable.
In an interview with IGIHE, Prof. Dusingizemungu, President of the Parliamentary Forum for the Prevention of Genocide, Denial, and Revisionism (AGPF), shared information that suggests some of the individuals involved in these recent violent acts are those who have completed their sentences for roles in the Genocide against the Tutsi but have failed to change.
'There are people who were convicted for their roles in the Genocide against the Tutsi, and while they have served their sentences, investigations and evidence suggest that some of them are still involved in such activities. It is clear that we need to put in more effort in preparing inmates for reintegration into society,' he said.
Rwanda plans to open a halfway home in February 2025 to help individuals nearing the end of their genocide-related sentences prepare for reintegration into society.
Prof. Dusingizemungu emphasized that those who have served their sentences, genuinely repented, admitted their crimes, and sought forgiveness pose no threat.
The real danger, he explained, lies with those who have never acknowledged their crimes and continue to harbor genocidal ideology.
'The problem lies with those who never admitted their crimes. These individuals are still clinging to genocidal ideology, and they are often behind the recent acts of violence against genocide survivors,' he said.
'This group requires special attention, and we must implement specific interventions to address them effectively.'
He also suggested that Rwanda's approach to reintegrating returnees and former members of terrorist groupsâ€"an approach that includes educating them on government policies and national valuesâ€"should be extended to those serving genocide-related sentences.
'These individuals should undergo similar orientations and guidance, preparing them through community-based activities like Umuganda , involving them in practical ways with their families and the local community. The goal is to ensure they are not isolated but integrated meaningfully into society,' he explained.
Prof. Dusingizemungu emphasized the importance of community involvement in this process, advocating for local residents to interact with these individuals before they return to their communities.
He further suggested that citizens should be informed about the returnees' presence, helping them understand how to reintegrate former prisoners and prevent misunderstandings.
Statistics show that over 21,000 individuals are incarcerated for genocide-related crimes, with the majority never having repented.
These individuals have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 25 to 30 years or even life sentences.
Prof. Dusingizemungu also pointed to the troubling involvement of youth in violence against genocide survivors, indicating that genocidal ideology persists in some families.
"This raises the question of whether genocidal ideology is being passed down from parents to their children. It shows that more efforts are needed to educate the youth on the history of the genocide, its consequences, and the importance of national unity," he said.
Prof. Dusingizemungu emphasized that encouraging everyone to participate in community development activities is crucial for building a strong and cohesive nation.
IGIHE
