The spokesperson for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, noted that from past experience, about 40% of all crimes recorded in a year occur in April, with a significant number linked to genocide ideology and related offenses.
He called on Rwandans to act responsibly and avoid engaging in such acts. Murangira was speaking on Thursday, April 3, 2025, during an interview with the national broadcaster, RBA.
He emphasized that this period calls for unity and reflection rather than division. 'April is the month where genocide ideology and related crimes tend to be more prevalent. Over the years, we have observed that a significant number of offenses committed annually take place during this period,' he said.
Murangira pointed out that crimes recorded during this time often include genocide ideology, discrimination, divisionism, and denial of the genocide, with many cases involving the harassment of genocide survivors.
'It is deeply concerning that, even after all these years, some individuals still hold such harmful beliefs. We want to make it clear that the law will not tolerate such actions, and those involved will be held accountable,' he stated.
He warned against those who take advantage of the commemoration period to revisit past personal disputes, using them as an excuse to spread hate speech or engage in acts that promote genocide ideology.
'As we mark the 31st commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, it is regrettable that some individuals still engage in such behavior. We urge them to stop because the law will not turn a blind eye,' he said.
The spokesperson also cautioned against dismissing dangerous rhetoric as mere jokes. 'There are statements that are simply not jokes. Some people we arrest claim they were only joking, but no one jokes by giving justification for genocide. That is not humor,' he stressed.
Additionally, he expressed concern over cases where children are taught genocide ideology or discriminatory beliefs, calling such actions unacceptable and punishable under the law.
As Rwanda embarks on the 31st commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, authorities urge the public to uphold the values of unity, respect, and accountability while ensuring that hate speech and division have no place in society.
IGIHE
