Senate President honors slain politicians during genocide commemoration

He made the remarks during the closing of the 32nd commemoration week of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at the Rebero Genocide Memorial in Kicukiro District.

Kalinda said the slain politicians were stripped of their dignity while defending truth and justice, noting they paid the ultimate price for rejecting ethnic division and genocide ideology.

“Remembering these politicians is a moment to honor their bravery and dedication, as they chose unity and just leadership over division,” he said.

He added that commemorating them restores their dignity and recognizes their sacrifice, while reminding leaders of their responsibility to protect all citizens, fight discrimination and uphold justice.

Kalinda emphasized that the 1994 genocide, which killed more than one million people, was the result of long-term planning fueled by bad leadership, ethnic division and hate propaganda rooted in colonial and post-independence governance.

He said discriminatory policies against Tutsi were institutionalized, including in the 1991 Constitution, and spread through political parties that promoted genocide ideology among citizens.
Kalinda stressed the importance of acknowledging the role of politicians in planning the genocide to counter denial and prevent its recurrence.

He noted that after the genocide was stopped by the RPF-Inkotanyi forces, Rwanda chose unity and inclusive governance, ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.

He urged Rwandans to remain united and reject hate speech and genocide ideology still present in the region.