Since her return to Rwanda as a presidential candidate, Victoire Umuhoza Ingabire has animated media interest. The main issue in her campaign is her claim that “those who killed the Hutu in the 1994 genocide have not been tried.†This is another way of saying the Rwanda Patriotic Front (read the Tutsi) is guilty of genocide against the Hutu.
Many people expected Ingabire to be arrested. She has not, at least not yet. Ingabire is good analytically for those interested in African politics. Her claims have formed a decade-long academic obsession by scholars on Rwanda most of whom are either French or enjoyed close links to the government of the late Juvenal Habyarimana.
Ingabire’s main campaign theme demonstrates the major challenges African nations face in seeking to establish democratic systems. In the West, elites share an agreement on basic national values; there is a political culture built around shared beliefs that define the terms and scope of political discourse. Electoral campaigns are therefore guided by what is accepted as legitimate debate and what is not.
I currently live in the world’s leading democracy, the United States of America. Here, the terms of the debate are clear, violation of which generates strong societal sanctions. In the last campaigns, Barack Obama’s pastor, Jeremiah Wright, made remarks considered injurious to the national consensus. There was broad-based condemnation of Wright’s claims that forced Obama to disown him. Equally, if a politician in America denied the Jewish Holocaust; it would be their last day in politics. Every political party would denounce them; mainstream media would shun them, and most civic associations would follow suit.
Political elites in Africa lack these shared national values that define the nature and scope of political discourse. This partly explains why electoral competition degenerates into violence; victory is seen as a defeat of one group by another; not a triumph of one idea over another. Yet it is in our immature nations with less educated electorates where democracy demands a lot of responsibility from our leaders.
Were there Hutu civilians who died at the hands of the RPF in 1994? I think so. But this was never RPF’s official policy. Any soldier who killed innocent civilians was punished. Are there some who for some reason were not punished? Very likely! However, the broader point should not be ignored: RPF ended genocide in Rwanda. It became the moral conscience of the country in its moment of national catastrophe.
During the Second World War, it was the official policy of the Western allies to bomb centres of German civilisation and civilian settlement. Estimates suggest that more than four million German civilians were killed. Now just imagine a presidential campaign in Germany, UK or USA in 1960 where a candidate was saying: “Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt should be alongside Enrick Himmler and Herman Goering at Nuremburg for trial.†That candidate’s career would just die.
It is unacceptable to attempt to create moral equivalence of the crimes of the Nazis with those who saved Western civilisation from fascism. Churchill and Roosevelt, whatever their acts or omissions cannot be put in the same dock with Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini. Scholars like Gerald Punier and my own friend Prof. Rene Lermachand who argue genocide of the Tutsi against Hutu cannot make a similar argument in regard to Churchill and Roosevelt.
On 9/11, America lost 3,000 people at the hands of Al-Qaeda. In response, the US invaded Afghanistan and later Iraq to fight a “war on terrorâ€. Thousands of Iraqi and Afghanistan civilians have died in air raids. However, a politician in the US cannot last one day in politics if – on this basis – he equated George Bush to Osama bin Laden.
Therefore, for a presidential candidate in Rwanda to say those who ended genocide should share the dock with those who orchestrated it; that victims of genocide should be tried alongside its architects, is irresponsible, insensitive and not worth being a leader. Whatever their mistakes and miscalculations, the RPF sought to end genocide – just like the UK and US during the Second World War sought to defeat fascism.
Rwanda today faces a great opportunity of deepening its democracy and of expanding its spheres of free expression. But it equally confronts a challenge of how to pursue this vision without igniting the forces of ethnic polarisation that contributed with such vengeance to the fragmentation of society and allowed evil to almost dismember it.
Ingabire stands at an historical moment to assist the process of democratisation in Rwanda. This requires the ability to appreciate the fragility of the political settlement in the country. She needs to reassure those who feel endangered ethnically that there can be debate without stoking the fires of hatred. Even if she were to become “the†legitimate voice of opposition in Rwanda, her claims show that she lacks the strategic foresight to help consolidate the platform for free expression in that country.
Given the emotive power of ethnicity especially in Rwanda, it is easy to rally a political following by making ethnic claims. But it is also extremely dangerous. Those who desire to see growth of a strong and viable opposition in Rwanda need to be cognisant of this fact. But if the opposition that grows focuses on scaring those who hold the instruments of control, we can say kwaheri to the democratic experiment.
Rwandans have strong and burning policy issues to battle today – on economic growth, infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, industry, services, urban planning, corruption, housing, the quality and effectiveness of institutions of government – the list is endless. It seems that opposition politicians in Africa often lack the ability to offer a real alternative to incumbent regimes at the level of public policy. This possibly explains why they retreat to identity claims to secure political support.
Sadly for Ingabire, many countries in Africa can afford ethnic politics. Rwanda cannot. In ignoring the lessons of history, she is actually undermining the very process that allowed her to return home. Hopefully, the people of Rwanda will have the wisdom to look at the content of a candidate’s policy proposals not their ethnicity in making electoral choices.
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written by Immaculate Nambi, February 24, 2010
written by Immaculate Nambi, February 24, 2010
Mr. Mwenda, any person who has studied countries in transition to democracy will tell you that there cannot be any real democracy without the resolution of issues that led to the turmoil in the first place. The notion of "shared" national values does not come about because a couple of people in the society ( with whom there is no shared consensus as to their legitimacy) decide on what is important and what is agreed on. America ( where I reside my self) came to have shared values after centuries and by all counts, it is still a work in progress ( going by recent events showing how polarized Mr. Obama has revealed America to be)
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Addendum...
written by Immaculate Nambi, February 24, 2010
written by Immaculate Nambi, February 24, 2010
I think that the best thing for democracy is not to pretend that unresolved issues do not exist. That is what you are vying for - it is an undisputed fact that for there to be any sense of justice, justice must be applied to all. Any other standard, is autocracy passing off as democracy. I'm glad that Ms.Ingabire has the courage to raise an issue that many people in Rwanda and therest of the world have been concerned by - the actions of the RPF. A few political elite should not dictate a whole society's memory and judgment of what is "truth". The thing about people is that regardless of what Mr. Kagame does, he has no control of what people think. And therein lies the issue - what people actually think/know as opposed to what you would like them to think.
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written by Major Adam Kifaliso, February 24, 2010
written by Major Adam Kifaliso, February 24, 2010
What is good for Rwanda must be good for Uganda , what is bad for Uganda must be bad for Rwanda , what do u think ,Andrew ???
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What unresolved issues?
written by gigi, February 24, 2010
written by gigi, February 24, 2010
Immaculate, there are no unresolved issues here. I think that you are playing around ingabire's thoery of tutsi against hut. she is using this as a politica weapon -thats all. otherwise mwenda is clear about this - this was not RPF's policy, and whoever killed innocent people kagame orderd that they face firing squad! many reporters who reported on the genocide and the war from 1990-1994 were telling the world that RPF was able to practice restraint despite the fact that their adversaries were massacring people. All the areas under the RPF control were peaceful, the hutus living in these areas were very safe. But on the other side, even a dog that was suspected to have belonged to a tutsi was killed! and you talk about trying both parties for genocide? sad!
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written by hingabugabo, February 24, 2010
written by hingabugabo, February 24, 2010
RPF soldiers committing atrocities during the process to stop genocide can't be compared to the genocide itself in any way! Genocide is such an extraordinary offense that even in countries where genocide did not occur, special legislation has been instituted to punish its denial. What about a Rwandan politician standing on a memorial where 250 000 victims are burried to rest, bringing genocide as a debatable subject during an election? Thanks Mr. Mwenda for your remarkable analysis.
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written by hingabugabo, February 24, 2010
written by hingabugabo, February 24, 2010
RPF soldiers committing atrocities during the process to stop genocide can't be compared to the genocide itself in any way! Genocide is such an extraordinary offense that even in countries where genocide did not occur, special legislation has been instituted to punish its denial. What about a Rwandan politician standing on a memorial where 250 000 victims are burried to rest, bringing genocide as a debatable subject during an election? Thanks Mr. Mwenda for your remarkable analysis.
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Mr
written by FAUSTIN RUKUNDO, February 24, 2010
written by FAUSTIN RUKUNDO, February 24, 2010
Mr Mwenda, when I read your story, I could hardly find the really direction of your research before publishing it. Do you truly believe that FPR tried to punish she those who killed not only Hutus but also Tutsis who did not show support? If you aim for credibility for your publications you need to be impartial or otherwise you should improve your research skills. who says ending Genocide gives right to kill people in KIBEHO, what about those killed in Byumba may you will shaw me which prison those who killed my family are in??? be realistic and honest then our world will be safe. Who told you that Ingabire is accusing FPR of genocide??? be sure of the words you put in peoples mount.
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written by Sam, February 24, 2010
written by Sam, February 24, 2010
Immaculate, I concur with you; the unresolved issues in Rwanda need to be resolved. Just because Rwanda has a plateful of burning policy issues to battle, it should not stifle the debate about genocide. The truth needs come out and also be heard, so the citizens can once again have faith to believe in a shared dream of a nation. Even if, the victor writes history, Hutus like Tutsis have common shared destiny, which should require many of them to listen to one another, so has to forged a common way forward. In countries like Uganda, Kenya, DR. Congo, and Burundi, including Somalia they all have if not, a similar sad story to tell. So in other words, ending of a conflict is not the silencing of guns it should be accompany by truth telling and reconciliation process.
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Cameleon
written by Kapipo, February 24, 2010
written by Kapipo, February 24, 2010
Andrew,your analysis exposes you exactly what you are.A cameleon! In Uganda,you pose as a human rights activist/investigative journalist. When analysing Rwanda,you change colour like a chameleon.In the long run Andrew,Rwanda affairs are gonna damage your career.Most people who viewed you as an independent minded young no nonsense journalist have resigned on you.In years ahead,people will make a judgement about you coz all your articles will be there in archives.Good luck.
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Is it true Mr.Mwenda?
written by Wart, February 25, 2010
written by Wart, February 25, 2010
Mr.Mwenda, Rwanda story is rather complicated and you should have some restraint commenting on some because the more you try to polish some issues the more ugly it turns out to be, but Rwandees should know that, you can either create a hell of your enviroment or a paradise, either you blow the truth out and reconcile or keep it under carpet and it resurfaces 200 years later with a new version of genocide, Rwandees should sit on a round table and agree on the way foward, its only Mindgets who don't ever agree of which i know they are not and they will work for the better of Rwanda.
Good day.
Good day.
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written by Dian Kenneth, February 25, 2010
written by Dian Kenneth, February 25, 2010
Mwneda's analysis is good, in fact excellent! I am also impressed by the short and excellent analysis of Immaculate. I am not conversant with the Rwanda issue, but I have for long asked myself (a stupid question perhaps), "what if the RPF had not opened a war front against the legitimate government of Rwanda, would the genocide take place"? That to me is where any debate or analysis of who should stand trial for genocide in Rwanda should begin.
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written by Dian Kenneth, February 25, 2010
written by Dian Kenneth, February 25, 2010
Investigation of human rights abuses should never be one sided as Mwenda has intimated. Even if one side went in to stop the other from committing crimes against humanity, they too should stand trial if they have committed crimes. Currently in Uganda, some people are examining the actions of the UPDF during the Kony war to see if they (UPDF) committed crimes against humanity. Using Mwenda’s line of thinking, I would like to ask Mwenda whether he thinks the people examining the actions of the UPDF during the Kony war are wrong (because the primary agenda of the UPDF was to stop Kony from committing crimes)
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Listen to Nambi !
written by Jespa , February 25, 2010
There si nothing wrong with what Nambi is saying . In a nutshell , she is simply wisely cautioning Mwenda and his followers that there is no simple answer when the question is : what come first , the egg or the chicken.
1994 was the first time Rwanda witnessed a massacre . Kagame and company should know why their parents left Rwanda in the first place . No one can predict what will happen if the causes of these massacres are not properly and openly investigated and publically discussed . Mwenda makes an imprudent mistake when he asserts that it was not the policy/ intention of PRA to start a massacre . Untill you study the reason why Habyalimana was short down , by who and for what reasons , you can never know .
written by Jespa , February 25, 2010
There si nothing wrong with what Nambi is saying . In a nutshell , she is simply wisely cautioning Mwenda and his followers that there is no simple answer when the question is : what come first , the egg or the chicken.
1994 was the first time Rwanda witnessed a massacre . Kagame and company should know why their parents left Rwanda in the first place . No one can predict what will happen if the causes of these massacres are not properly and openly investigated and publically discussed . Mwenda makes an imprudent mistake when he asserts that it was not the policy/ intention of PRA to start a massacre . Untill you study the reason why Habyalimana was short down , by who and for what reasons , you can never know .
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USA on political values
written by Juma Kato, February 25, 2010
written by Juma Kato, February 25, 2010
Mwenda seem to be easily impressed by USA and the way they shun politicians who fall out of line .
He forgets to mention that , given his past , USA would never vote General Paul Kagame , the man who commanded a rebel army that might have assasinated a President , even when it was known that shooting down that plane would definately trigger off a deadly re-action - a massacre .
He forgets to mention that , given his past , USA would never vote General Paul Kagame , the man who commanded a rebel army that might have assasinated a President , even when it was known that shooting down that plane would definately trigger off a deadly re-action - a massacre .
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Cameleon Mwenda
written by Juma Kato, February 25, 2010
I find Kappo`s comment very interesting . Actually , Mwenda used to talk a lot on his live show before he left Uganda . Maybe , he has now forgotten that he used to argue that Museveni and his NRA should be investigated for their actions in Luwero . Mwenda never believed NRA´s claim that it did not kill civilians in Luwero or anywhere because " this was not NRA`s policy " . Same Mwenda has always said that UPDF should be called in to explain if they did not commit attrocities when they were fighting Kony.
written by Juma Kato, February 25, 2010
I find Kappo`s comment very interesting . Actually , Mwenda used to talk a lot on his live show before he left Uganda . Maybe , he has now forgotten that he used to argue that Museveni and his NRA should be investigated for their actions in Luwero . Mwenda never believed NRA´s claim that it did not kill civilians in Luwero or anywhere because " this was not NRA`s policy " . Same Mwenda has always said that UPDF should be called in to explain if they did not commit attrocities when they were fighting Kony.
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This issue will never be put to rest untill the all truth comes out
written by Des.M, February 25, 2010
written by Des.M, February 25, 2010
Shame on you Mwenda for believing RPF must be left to walk free, they indeed participated in the killings of innocent Hutus and even Tutsi gov't symphasizers. They killed and killed, and dead bodies went into exile from their river kagera controlled areas, dead bodies and their remains were vividly seen as far as kasesero on the shores of lake victoria in Uganda. RPF killings continued into Eastern DR Congo in the guise of persuing the interahamwe, the victims were again innoccent children and women. The RPF killing bonanza in Congo occurred in collusion with the Ugandan army, and bodies dumped in places like Joseph Kibwetere's so-called massacre, this is why any exhumation and investigation at this church was completely surpressed by the Museveni gov't.
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written by Ngaboy'Imanzi, February 25, 2010
written by Ngaboy'Imanzi, February 25, 2010
Ingabire's second in command was drawn from the army of genocideires and when he was arrested she started crying foul that he was not in Rwanda when genocide was being commited. Now that all evidence of his presence in Rwanda at the time and his involvement in commiting genocide has been brought to the fore for every one to see, i wonder what other magic she is going to apply to prove this to the contrary. What good shd we really expect from her with all this filth and blood surrounding her? I think every eligible Rwandan has a right to stand for presidency of the country, but if Ingabire's candidacy is based on dabating the Rwandan Genocide which is recognised internationally, then God protect us from Ingabire.
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Course of justice.
written by boda boda, February 25, 2010
written by boda boda, February 25, 2010
Rwanda will one day be democratic, a land of peace, all people of all ethinicity shall live in harmony.
But let us not be fouled, where democracy is concerned old wounds will always be opened.
How many hutus lost their brothers, their sisters, husbands wives and children in wars of self glorifications under ruthless dictators.
dictatorship does not select people to oppress, all suffer at every cost of their justification. those who are accountable for the crimes commited must face justice, Same as M7 will one day face justice for his crimes with the ICC.
But let us not be fouled, where democracy is concerned old wounds will always be opened.
How many hutus lost their brothers, their sisters, husbands wives and children in wars of self glorifications under ruthless dictators.
dictatorship does not select people to oppress, all suffer at every cost of their justification. those who are accountable for the crimes commited must face justice, Same as M7 will one day face justice for his crimes with the ICC.
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Recommendation, Andrew
written by Rev Amos Kasibante, February 25, 2010
written by Rev Amos Kasibante, February 25, 2010
Mwenda, great to know you are based at Yale University at the moment of penning this article. Don't miss the opportunity to meet with Prof Miroslav Volf, the Henry B Wright Professor of Theology & Director of the Yale Centre of Faith & Culture. I am sure you and him would have an interesting conversation. His latest book is "Against the Tide: Love in a Time of Petty Dreams and Persistent Enmity" (2010). Another is The End of Memory: Remembering Rightly in a Violent World" (2007). They touch on genocide in former Yugoslavia and Rwanda - and I am sure on the problems Uganda has had or likely to have.
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written by Andrew Mwenda, February 25, 2010
written by Andrew Mwenda, February 25, 2010
The debate above is intriguing by how unable some of my critics above are to see my point. the que to the solution of Rw can be taken from the RPF itself. why took over power, they decided not to prosecute every person involved in the genocide. through gacaca, they have even pardon the vast majority of those who killed. there are weaknesses of course, that is how human affairs work; you cannot have perfection. if u hate RPF, Mandela's south africa can be an inspiration since they did not seek to punish those who committed crimes during apatheid. with that in mind, it is irresponsible for a politician to come to rw now calling for the prosecution of those who ended genocide while many of those who committed it have been pardoned.
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Please don't compare Mandela and Kagame!!
written by germain, February 25, 2010
written by germain, February 25, 2010
I think that's much more ridiculous than your whole article. Before you say the RPF ended the genocide, first you should seek to understand what caused it. It is the same kind of silence you are advocating for, not the discussion of issues at hand. Ask any Rwandese today they will confirm two facts for you; one the RPF rules rwanda with an iron fist, and two everyone knows about the millions of people they killed. Even Habyarimana, before 1990, could have made the same claims that the RPF is making today. Actually Rwanda was considered the Switzeland of Africa, just like today. Yes Rwanda is safe today, but people live in fear. I have a suggestion for you, read the following books, then you can talk about the good that RPF has brought to rwanda: 1.Patrick Habamenshi
and 2. Joseph Sebarenzi
and 2. Joseph Sebarenzi
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written by germain, February 25, 2010
written by germain, February 25, 2010
the books are:
Rwanda, Where Souls Turn to Dust: My Journey from Exile to Legacy
by Patrick Ha Um'khonde Patrick Habamenshi
God Sleeps in Rwanda: A Journey of Transformation
Joseph Sebarenzi
By the way these are people who worked with the RPF. Again please don't compare Kagame to Mandela. It's very misleading.
Rwanda, Where Souls Turn to Dust: My Journey from Exile to Legacy
by Patrick Ha Um'khonde Patrick Habamenshi
God Sleeps in Rwanda: A Journey of Transformation
Joseph Sebarenzi
By the way these are people who worked with the RPF. Again please don't compare Kagame to Mandela. It's very misleading.
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written by germain, February 25, 2010
written by germain, February 25, 2010
As for Gacaca, we can discuss that another day. How would you feel if someone killed your whole family, and all he gets is a group of uneducated individuals who don't even understand the law to judge him? Or the reverse where you get accused on baseless charges and you can't even defend yourself in a court of law? Are you forgetting that Kagame uses the same script as Museveni whom you are always criticizing?
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Delusion!
written by dre, February 25, 2010
written by dre, February 25, 2010
The 1994 rwanda army/government orchestrated a genocide--no doubt about that one--- anyone who seeks to revise this is delusional. The RPF did commit numerous human rights violations -- anyone who denies this is also delusional. However the insanity involved in equating human rights violations to genocide is remarkable ! The are so many avenues to express disatifisfaction with the Kagame's Rwanda and marginalization of hutu in leadership positions -- other than postulating theories of genocide of Hutu.
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Delusion!
written by dre, February 25, 2010
written by dre, February 25, 2010
The 1994 rwanda army/government orchestrated a genocide--no doubt about that one--- anyone who seeks to revise this is delusional. The RPF did commit numerous human rights violations -- anyone who denies this is also delusional. However the insanity involved in equating human rights violations to genocide is remarkable ! The are so many avenues to express disatifisfaction with the Kagame's Rwanda and marginalization of hutu in leadership positions -- other than postulating theories of genocide of Hutu.
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Justice should be balanced
written by Paul Muwanga, February 26, 2010
written by Paul Muwanga, February 26, 2010
Anyone would agree that African countries can no longer afford ethnic politics. In this regard justice should also be balanced. Rwanda has complicated history and unfortunately the Tutsis are heavily outnumbered by the Hutus. If the latter are denied justice and continue to be maginalized, this would most probably not create an environment for future stability of their country.
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RPA's actions started the Genocide in the first place
written by Politi Fact, February 26, 2010
written by Politi Fact, February 26, 2010
Andrew, you have often stated that the RPA ended the Genocide, with an aim of creating the impression that they went to Rwanda to stop the Genocide. This is both disingenous and revisionist. We all know that the Genocide started when the RPA invaded. This is not to suggest that it was justified but at the same time you should not try to create wrong impressions. Interestingly when it comes to UPDFs war against Kony, you condemn UPDF more than Kony. Your biased analysis of situations has tainted your reputation as a journalist. Your obsession with Kagame has severely impaired your ability to make sound judgements
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context
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
One of the biggest areas of contention is the "stopped genocide" badge of honor given to the rpf. This badge is in no way shape or form a free pass for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. Not so much genocide against hutus per se, but against the Congolese (although some hutus perished during this genocide of six million people). "Stopped genocide" is not an excuse to persecute political thoughts, ideas, and opposition. "Stopped genocide" is no excuse for the denial of victims their right to mourn loved ones simply because of the ethnic group they belong to (news flash - while an unpopular assertion, hutus lost loved ones during the genocide too, as did twas, and as did other expatriates from other countries who were living in Rwanda at the time).
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context con't
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
Let's not pretend to be ignorant to the fact that there was a simultaneous war occurring the same time as the genocide also. And let's keep it real, the RPF were not drinking mojitos while laying in hammocks as the war was happening. In fact, let's not forget that they perpetrated two of the major war crimes that took place in Rwanda, namely, attacking a sovereign nation during a period of peace, and murdering/assassinating two presidents. "Stopped genocide" is no excuse to create a hostile hierarchy system and glorification of one ethnic group over others, where all groups have equal rights to freedom, democracy and peace.
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context con't 2
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
Therefore, "stopped genocide" in no way shape or form absolves them from the responsibility and accountability of 7+ million people whose deaths they are responsible for. Again, "stopped genocide" in which they were active participants hardly deserves all the accolades they've received nor the pedestal on which you blindly continue to push them unto. Triumphed during the war and genocide in which they were active participants is more like it. While you're free to continue to advocate on behalf of this terrorist group, try keep things in perspective.
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con't final
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
written by sunkissed, February 26, 2010
Support your opinions by asserting your right to defend a terrorist group that's deteriorating the Great Lakes of Africa, and say proudly that the lives of 500,000-1,000,000 lives of mixed tutsi, twas, hutus, and other expatriates is worth more consideration (since another party in conjunction with RPF was responsible for the death toll) than the 6,000,000-7,000,000+ lives who perished strictly at the hands of the RPF. Your choice, it's your moral conscious.
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Leaving out regional and historical context
written by Colored Opinions, February 26, 2010
written by Colored Opinions, February 26, 2010
The many reactions show that Rwanda's politics does not operate in a vacuum. The end of the cold war gave the political players in the great lakes region a new deck of cards. Mobutu was unable to adapt to the "new world order" while others used the few cards they had received to the max. This all ended in the seemingly endless eruption of violence in Rwanda, but also Zaïre. I still remember the picture of Mobutu and Mandela on a boat in the Congo river. The symbol of the old world order sitting (nice pic but naive political suicide) at the table with the symbol of the new world order.
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written by Lakwena, February 26, 2010
written by Lakwena, February 26, 2010
Dian Kenneth, It is with a shy of relief that finally I have found someone to bear me out. There are people on this debate who don't want to hear about "WHAT IF the RPF had not opened a war front against the legitimate government of Rwanda, would the genocide take place"? For them "what if" is inconsequential. As far as the genocide is concerned, the RPF/M are victims not villains. Their defendants don't want to face the law of cause and effect. In the real world, Victoire Umuhoza Ingabire has finally spoken the unspeakable: “those who killed the Hutu in the 1994 genocide have not been tried.”
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shame uganda government .
written by police, February 26, 2010
written by police, February 26, 2010
Mwenda, What has come of Uganda? I live abroad, my trip to ug I was gobsmacked when i saw how some of our Uganda police, army, prisons officers live below reasonable living standards, many live in rotten rusty Uniports, Mud huts, tents. Police dogs live and better fed than their counterparts, police baracks looks pathetic like IDP camps, yet officials like kayihura live in mansions somewhere. these are the same police who are going to be deployed use excessive force and violence to retain M7 back in power coming next 2011 elections. can you please run an interview to show the world in pictures to shame Uganda gov;t.
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written by Lakwena, February 26, 2010
written by Lakwena, February 26, 2010
To make a long story short, the RPF did not use brooms, sticks and stones to defeat Abyarimannas forces of darkness. They used lethal weapons. Even if they used sticks and stones, we have seen mobs kill chicken thieves with sticks and stones. The RPF must have killed a good number of innocen people. War is madness. And in order for the RPF to win the war it must have killed more than the Rwandese Army of the day. Just like in Uganda, Museveni used and displayed his victims (UNLA) skulls to demonize the UPC government, Kagame display the skulls of his victims to demonize Habyarimana. In all the African civil wars, it is only the NRA and RPF who displayed skulls to vilify their adversaries.
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written by john, February 26, 2010
written by john, February 26, 2010
What ever happened to general Nkunda after being arrested by Rwanda army, instead he is being glorified protected by kagame and living a lavishing lifestyle in kigali, thousand of congolese civilians perished in so called war, he should face justice.
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Time 4 Soul searching!!
written by Gakiire, February 26, 2010
written by Gakiire, February 26, 2010
Much as I agree with Andrew, I believe in Nambi articulated Comment.
I do highly believe that Rwandese should stop the blame game cos whatever happened, happened, so, this is the time 4 soul searching and move fast forward coz Rwanda's history is very ugly to mingle and apprehend. we have no single time but to own our ERRORS and MISTAKES and seek profound remedies.
we living interdependent age were separation can't lead us anywhere!!!
I do highly believe that Rwandese should stop the blame game cos whatever happened, happened, so, this is the time 4 soul searching and move fast forward coz Rwanda's history is very ugly to mingle and apprehend. we have no single time but to own our ERRORS and MISTAKES and seek profound remedies.
we living interdependent age were separation can't lead us anywhere!!!
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Mwenda is right on the point.
written by francis, February 26, 2010
written by francis, February 26, 2010
I can't help but feel like most people reads with prejudice when it comes to Rwandan issues but i have never ready a well organised and presented analysis like Mwenda has deployed on this issue. The issue is not if the present goernment is hinding the truth and stifling people out of debate but rather the consensus that Genocide was planned and carried out by the government of Habyalimana. It is view that would help maybe most people understand why when you try to put everybody in the same box by everyone i mean RPF, EX-FAR and Interahamwe then you need more of research done on you part on what happened in Rwanda.
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Impunity has led to over 6 Million Deaths in the Region
written by Eric Brown, February 26, 2010
written by Eric Brown, February 26, 2010
Mr. Mwenda must have either been bribed by Paul Kagame and the RPF or is extremely ignorant. RPF Stopped the genocide? It was not the RPF policy to kill over 300 000 people in Rwanda before the genocide? Is that an LAME excuse or what? Does it matter if it's the policy or not? That 10 000 were killed by the RPF in a matter of hours in KIBEHO should not be punished because they "stopped the genocide"?
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Impunity has led to over 6 Million Deaths in the Region Pt2
written by Eric Brown, February 26, 2010
written by Eric Brown, February 26, 2010
Only 5 RPF soldiers have ever been to court on these charges. Is this serious? Mr. Mwenda how much did Paul Kagame pay you to write such articles? How would you like someone killing your family and friends and getting away with it because they "stopped the genocide" mr. Mwenda? That Ingabire accused the RPF of genocide? When did she do that? PRAY TELL MR. MWENDA!! They were so punished, they went on to commit genocide in the Congo and killed almost 6 million people.
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R.P.F double heroes
written by Diana Roseberg, February 26, 2010
written by Diana Roseberg, February 26, 2010
Who killed the hutu? Hutu interahamwe killed thousands of moderate hutu who didn't agree to there notions of genocide.
The Hutu Army kiilled hutu politicians who challenged them politically notable among was the Prime minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana.
Hutu interahmwe also killed each other when fighting over looted spoils from their victims.So should we blame the R.P.F for that also?
The Hutu Army kiilled hutu politicians who challenged them politically notable among was the Prime minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana.
Hutu interahmwe also killed each other when fighting over looted spoils from their victims.So should we blame the R.P.F for that also?
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written by Diana Roseberg, February 26, 2010
written by Diana Roseberg, February 26, 2010
About those acts of retaliation by tutsi-R.P.F Soldiers.lets us be honest to each other.If it was the policy of the R.P.F to retaliate,why then did they make seth Sendashonga as Interior Minister? Or Bizimungu as President or why did they integrate many hutu soldiers in their ranks? Lets face it,the R.P.F should instead be hailed and praised for not only stopping genocide but also stopping a possible retaliation that would easily have gone out of hand.
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keep off Rwanda in your paper
written by Rwangombwa John, February 26, 2010
written by Rwangombwa John, February 26, 2010
Mwenda's articles on Rwanda are very disguisting. Rwanda is neither comparable to any other country nor her leader (Kagame) dear Mwenda. Rwanda has undergone very terrible and testing times. Your words add some injury to the wounds to many rwandans. There have been killings on both sides and if you bring in such issues of one-sided journalims-it hurts many. Please leave Rwanda Alone! It's unfortanute that rwanda has had dictators all way from kingship but Kagame is top most with extra constitutional powers who assumes sole and absolute power. We know you are on his payroll, but plse we're hurt by your articles on Rwanda. Jailing innocent pple leaving out his henchmen like Ndahiros while fighting graft and corruption of which you always credit him is Kagame's tactics to trick donors,
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"what they don't tell you about Rwanda" by Yash Ghai
written by germain, February 26, 2010
written by germain, February 26, 2010
Mr Mwenda I didn't realize you have a love for Kagame. Apparently you have written several articles on him, no wonder u are so blinded.
Maybe you need to read "what they don't tell you about Rwanda" by Yash Ghai
http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/InsidePage.php?id=1144025632&catid=4&a=1
the full report can be found on the link below;
http://www.humanrightsinitiative.org/publications/hradvocacy/ rwanda's_application_for_membership_of_the_commonwealth
.pdf
Now if an outsider can make such an observation do you think the people are so stupid not to know what's going on? Is this the silence you are advocating for?
Maybe you need to read "what they don't tell you about Rwanda" by Yash Ghai
http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/InsidePage.php?id=1144025632&catid=4&a=1
the full report can be found on the link below;
http://www.humanrightsinitiative.org/publications/hradvocacy/ rwanda's_application_for_membership_of_the_commonwealth
Now if an outsider can make such an observation do you think the people are so stupid not to know what's going on? Is this the silence you are advocating for?
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to Diana Roseberg
written by germain, February 26, 2010
written by germain, February 26, 2010
Do you know about how seth Sendashonga died? Or what happened to Bizimungu after he was forced to leave his office. Comeon do a bit more research before making those kinds of statements. Of course a 15% minority needs to employ people from the majority, so they can rule. They needed them to win the war, then they had no use for them. Do you know about Lizinde?
actually I can give you another one Twagiramungu, the only one still alive
actually I can give you another one Twagiramungu, the only one still alive
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To Diana Roseberg
written by Eric Brown, February 27, 2010
written by Eric Brown, February 27, 2010
Dear Diana, who was the RPF saving when they invaded the Congo all the way to Kinshasa and occupied the Congo or parts of it for the last 13 years? Who were they saving by killing over 5 million Innocent Congolese? Would you be as apologetic for the RPF and reducing the massacres the committed since 1990 as acts of vengence if one of your parents or child (if you have any) was one among those 5-6 million?
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Lets face the truth.
written by jordan, February 27, 2010
written by jordan, February 27, 2010
Mwenda, why are you so factniciated and obsessed with rwanda, what did kagame offer you?
M7 and kagame shot their way to power and fame and they are all birds of the same feather, you are rwanda spokesperson, why cant we confront Issues facing us in uganda instead everybody jumping on rwanda bandwagon to debate issues which dont concern us. lets face the truth Our home is under fire, why run to the neighbour home to put out their fire, what GOOD will this rwanda debate do for us ugandans, will it put food on our table? or breed another M7 from rwanda to save us? It is same ugandans who throw accusations on rwanda for supporting NRA war now you are gloryifying kagame,
M7 and kagame shot their way to power and fame and they are all birds of the same feather, you are rwanda spokesperson, why cant we confront Issues facing us in uganda instead everybody jumping on rwanda bandwagon to debate issues which dont concern us. lets face the truth Our home is under fire, why run to the neighbour home to put out their fire, what GOOD will this rwanda debate do for us ugandans, will it put food on our table? or breed another M7 from rwanda to save us? It is same ugandans who throw accusations on rwanda for supporting NRA war now you are gloryifying kagame,
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written by Daina Roseberg, February 27, 2010
written by Daina Roseberg, February 27, 2010
@ Eric and Germain,when the time comes,the R.P.F will have to come clear on the excesses of some members of the R.P.F and this much they are willing to.I spoke to one Rwandan General and he admits that one day,as Rwandans they will come to harmoniously solve that question.Problem he said is,getting a honest,ready to compromise hutu politicians to pave the way to win the confidence of the entire Rwandan population.
When Sendashonga was interior minister,(just like many hutu politicians), he instead used the retaliation event as a stand point to adverse his political ambitions with the aim to challenge the new Kagame administration.That is tantamount to closing the chapter of any re conciliatory effort.
When Sendashonga was interior minister,(just like many hutu politicians), he instead used the retaliation event as a stand point to adverse his political ambitions with the aim to challenge the new Kagame administration.That is tantamount to closing the chapter of any re conciliatory effort.
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written by Daina Roseberg, February 27, 2010
written by Daina Roseberg, February 27, 2010
But whoever expects no incidence of retaliation in the wake of one of the most intimate genocide of modern times is un-realistic.
Iam a jew and if my ancestors were to live side by side with the Nazis and their German neighbours in the wake of the Holocaust,i can't imagine what would have stopped the cycle of violence.But this is what Kagame and his men were obligated to stop.Stand between raw anger and logic and ofcourse logic took the day.
About Congo,please don't be naive.Any Country has got the right to defend it's territorial integrity and if the Congo can't solve the hutu militia sanctuary in the eastern congo,what would you expect the kigali regime to do? Sit back and wait for the mercy of the genocidaires?
Iam a jew and if my ancestors were to live side by side with the Nazis and their German neighbours in the wake of the Holocaust,i can't imagine what would have stopped the cycle of violence.But this is what Kagame and his men were obligated to stop.Stand between raw anger and logic and ofcourse logic took the day.
About Congo,please don't be naive.Any Country has got the right to defend it's territorial integrity and if the Congo can't solve the hutu militia sanctuary in the eastern congo,what would you expect the kigali regime to do? Sit back and wait for the mercy of the genocidaires?
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Lawyer
written by thadeus mabasi, February 27, 2010
written by thadeus mabasi, February 27, 2010
Andrew you are absolutely right. I am an international criminal law lawyer and I can authoritatively confirm that the Tutsi or RPF did not commit genocide. One of the elements of the crime of genocide is the existence of a genocidal intent which is the mental element in law called Mens rea . in the case of genocide , the genocidal intent is the intention to exterminate a group. This was not the case for RPF, as you rightly observed the RPF ended the genocide.
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It is time to moveon and put a better Rwanda together
written by Ocheto, February 27, 2010
written by Ocheto, February 27, 2010
Rwanda cannot afford to relive the gory blood letting that occassioned the genocide, over and over again, all for political gains. But if the Tutsi military rulers, who now have a chance to rebuild Rwanda a new, didn't learn from what happened and continue to pursue politics of evening scores then they are dooming Rwanda to suffer the same fate on an even worse scale. Look at Uganda. All each coming regime is does is to outdo its predecessors at evening the scores. Yeah, what happened in Rwanda was deplorable all round, there were no winners, but it is now time to refocus national energy on a better future.
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written by mugabem, February 28, 2010
written by mugabem, February 28, 2010
Mme Ingabire should recruit Mwenda to be part of her campaign team! Read this : "Ingabire stands at an historical moment to assist the process of democratization in Rwanda. This requires the ability to appreciate the fragility of the political settlement in the country. She needs to reassure those who feel endangered ethnically that there can be debate without stoking the fires of hatred. Even if she were to become “the” legitimate voice of opposition in Rwanda, her claims show that she lacks the strategic foresight to help consolidate the platform for free expression in that country". I think Mme Ingabire can learn a lot from this kind of views and analysis if she really stands to "incarnate" peace, security and prosperity for all Rwandans! I really wish her good luck!
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Immaculate, hatred or the desire to show intelligence should not blind u
written by Safali, March 01, 2010
I have read Immaculate's comments on Mwenda's article and the ones of those who think like her and my conclusion is that for Immaculate, she is probably in some competetion with Andrew for she never seems to agree with anything he writes. Some of her arguments, of course, sometimes make sense and I guess that is why Andrew has sometimes come back to clarify himself. I did not , however, anticipate that a person of her intelligence would have the guts to defend the perpetuators of the genocide under the guise of "unresolves issues". Could she tell us exactly what those issues are?
I hope she does not suscribe to this notion that those who fought for their right to return to their home country are responsible for what happened!
written by Safali, March 01, 2010
I have read Immaculate's comments on Mwenda's article and the ones of those who think like her and my conclusion is that for Immaculate, she is probably in some competetion with Andrew for she never seems to agree with anything he writes. Some of her arguments, of course, sometimes make sense and I guess that is why Andrew has sometimes come back to clarify himself. I did not , however, anticipate that a person of her intelligence would have the guts to defend the perpetuators of the genocide under the guise of "unresolves issues". Could she tell us exactly what those issues are?
I hope she does not suscribe to this notion that those who fought for their right to return to their home country are responsible for what happened!
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written by Immaculate Nambi, March 01, 2010
written by Immaculate Nambi, March 01, 2010
Safali,
In response to your comment, I feel I should give you some personal information about me; I am a 25 year old Uganda who in spite of being plagued by a great sense of cynicism as far as Uganda is concerned, will every now and then care enough for a subject to comment on it. Sometimes the comment will be a criticism of a portrayal of facts/opinions that I'm not in agreement with. I also happen to have plenty of time on wednesdays, hence my dropping a line in response to Mr. Mwenda's articles every so often.
That is really the short and long of why I comment to this, or any other article. As far as unresolved issues in Rwanda go, I suggest that you look no further than Mr. Mwenda's article.
In response to your comment, I feel I should give you some personal information about me; I am a 25 year old Uganda who in spite of being plagued by a great sense of cynicism as far as Uganda is concerned, will every now and then care enough for a subject to comment on it. Sometimes the comment will be a criticism of a portrayal of facts/opinions that I'm not in agreement with. I also happen to have plenty of time on wednesdays, hence my dropping a line in response to Mr. Mwenda's articles every so often.
That is really the short and long of why I comment to this, or any other article. As far as unresolved issues in Rwanda go, I suggest that you look no further than Mr. Mwenda's article.
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written by j.busingye, March 01, 2010
written by j.busingye, March 01, 2010
Andrew you tried to highlight a subject that is complex for Rwanda's context. The genocide not withstanding there are seriously unresolved issues of justice relating to crimes committed during the genocide and after. Some amount to crimes against humanity. So it is only right that the aggrieved brings the charges without remorse for it in order to get them resolved. Do not forget that the Second World War was rooted in an aggrieved German after the First World War.
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Mwenda's deficit of decency
written by Francis Muhoozi, March 01, 2010
written by Francis Muhoozi, March 01, 2010
Ever since I started reading Mwenda's articles on Rwanda, I have noted with concern how a young brain in writing can degenerate into induced idiocy. Mwenda! Who started a civil war in Rwanda in 1990 that openned tribal scars of the 1950s that had steadily started to heal? Who started the Rwanda genocide by killing President Habyarimana? Is hutu blood less human to you Mwenda? How many Tutsis did Habyarimana kill? Who killed Habyarimana? When did the genocide start? How old was Ingabire when the majority of Hutu went to polls and opposed the Tutsi decades of abuse and oppression in 1959? How are Hutus being treated in Rwanda today?.....?......?
Mwenda please enjoy Kagame blood dollars in peace, but not on the Hutu blood! Give us a break!!!
Mwenda please enjoy Kagame blood dollars in peace, but not on the Hutu blood! Give us a break!!!
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Thanks Francis
written by Germain, March 01, 2010
written by Germain, March 01, 2010
According to Rose half a million tutsi lives are more important than the 6 million congolese killed. Well Rose in central africa all lives are equal and as rightlly say, Kagame will have to answer for the evils committed there. The time is now, so stop your half blind justice speeches.
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Lt Gen Nyamwasa
written by Poppy, March 01, 2010
written by Poppy, March 01, 2010
Why is kagame after Lt Gen Nyamwasa? who is currently on the run, is it because he could be a loose canon to testify about Rwanda genocide? someone help
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absurd
written by B.Sabiti, March 02, 2010
written by B.Sabiti, March 02, 2010
Mwenda, This is my first time to comment on your articles, though I have virtually always read all of them. Indeed there must be some mischief behind your fascination with Rwanda, and its aloof patron, Mr Kagame. I have always liked your analysis of Kagame's modus operandi regarding his policies in governing and I have always liked most of your arguments. But it is as if you have reached a point where you think Kagame/RPF can do no/has never done any wrong. That Some elements of RPA intentionally butchered some Hutus in their thousands as an act of revenge long after they had captured power is undeniable.
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written by B.Sabiti, March 02, 2010
written by B.Sabiti, March 02, 2010
I have a hutu friend whose entire village was butchered and he only survived because several bodies fell on him after being felled by RPA bullets. he lost everyone and his mother was killed as she came back to look for him.This was a well orchestrated move where one Interahamwe suspect would lead to the obliteration of his entire village
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Why R.D.F went to Congo
written by Daina Roseberg, March 02, 2010
written by Daina Roseberg, March 02, 2010
To those who hold the Rwanda regime to fault for attacking Congo watch this video http://www.guardian.co.uk/worl...lr-rwanda.
Those who cant watch but can read,then have this http://www.guardian.co.uk/worl...ngo.rwanda
Those who cant watch but can read,then have this http://www.guardian.co.uk/worl...ngo.rwanda
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On rwanda & congo
written by germain, March 03, 2010
written by germain, March 03, 2010
Daina I honestly don't see your point. If you want to look for human rights abuse start from this one
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8544564.stm
Bosco ntaganda was in the bush with Kagame in 1994, and as everyone knows he still works for him. Or you may man to check the commonwealth human rights report on rwanda;
http://www.humanrightsinitiative.org/publications/hradvocacy/ rwanda's_application_for_membership_of_the_commonwealth
.pdf
In short there is no way you are going to convince anyone of your ridiculous view that half a million rwandese lives are worth more than 5 - 6 congolese lives. unless of course you have a personal vandator in all this.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8544564.stm
Bosco ntaganda was in the bush with Kagame in 1994, and as everyone knows he still works for him. Or you may man to check the commonwealth human rights report on rwanda;
http://www.humanrightsinitiative.org/publications/hradvocacy/ rwanda's_application_for_membership_of_the_commonwealth
In short there is no way you are going to convince anyone of your ridiculous view that half a million rwandese lives are worth more than 5 - 6 congolese lives. unless of course you have a personal vandator in all this.
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On rwanda & congo
written by germain, March 03, 2010
written by germain, March 03, 2010
Daina I honestly don't see your point. If you want to look for human rights abuse start from this one
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8544564.stm
Bosco ntaganda was in the bush with Kagame in 1994, and as everyone knows he still works for him. Or you may man to check the commonwealth human rights report on rwanda;
http://www.humanrightsinitiative.org/publications/hradvocacy/ rwanda's_application_for_membership_of_the_commonwealth
.pdf
In short there is no way you are going to convince anyone of your ridiculous view that half a million rwandese lives are worth more than 5 - 6 congolese lives. unless of course you have a personal vandator in all this.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8544564.stm
Bosco ntaganda was in the bush with Kagame in 1994, and as everyone knows he still works for him. Or you may man to check the commonwealth human rights report on rwanda;
http://www.humanrightsinitiative.org/publications/hradvocacy/ rwanda's_application_for_membership_of_the_commonwealth
In short there is no way you are going to convince anyone of your ridiculous view that half a million rwandese lives are worth more than 5 - 6 congolese lives. unless of course you have a personal vandator in all this.
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written by germain, March 03, 2010
written by germain, March 03, 2010
by the way the commonwealth report shows the real reason for rwanda's involvement in congo, stealing on minerals and all the abuses done there.
cheers
cheers
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Why is international press very silent on Lt Gen Kayumba Nyamwasa's saga.
written by Don, March 03, 2010
written by Don, March 03, 2010
Nyamwasa's name is very prominent in the geo millitary politics of the great lakes region, but is very surprising how the international press has turned a deaf hear as the saga continues to unravel. Given the international arrest warrants (French and spanish) on his head it would at least warrant a paragraph in the international press. Is it Kagames PR machinations at work or the world is simply not interested in the geo politics of the great lakes region? Habyarimanas wife arrest has got international attention, how comes Nyamwasa's saga appears no where. Africas success story seems to be disintergrating.
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Mwenda is misinformed.
written by Innocent, March 03, 2010
written by Innocent, March 03, 2010
I do not share the view of Mr Andrew Mwenda on Mrs Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza. Mrs Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza is a very responsible politician, keen to take the bull i.e. Rwandan tragic past, by its horns in order to forge a better future.
My full comments on Mwenda’s article are so detailed and would take too much space here. That’s why I’ve made them available in another article titled: http://rwandinfo.com/eng/rejoi...aviour”/
My full comments on Mwenda’s article are so detailed and would take too much space here. That’s why I’ve made them available in another article titled: http://rwandinfo.com/eng/rejoi...aviour”/
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Dian keneth, am bothered people like u still exist!
written by erick, March 04, 2010
written by erick, March 04, 2010
Am worried, when u say that "had it not RPF's struggle the genocide would not have happened?" is that the way you think?Do you know why RPF took up arms?why were there many refugees outside?was there RPF in 1959?, 1960-63? which world do you live in?or you may be one of them?I don't know why when it comes to Rwanda, the word genocide changes?some say its b'se of Habyarimana's plane, the dian keneths say its b'se of RPF struggle!!!!Do u knw how long it takes to plan 4 the genocide?or the steps of genocide?how many countries had liberation struggles but had no genocide?Andrew keep up the struggle we are in 2day 4 negating the genocide!Dian keneth plz read, or keep quiet!
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Mr.
written by Buyinza Alex, March 06, 2010
written by Buyinza Alex, March 06, 2010
Mr.Mwendha, I agree with your reasoning, people should not confuse war crimes and genocide, these are two different issues which should be treated differently. Rwanda has since punished officers and men who committed war related crimes, but for somebody, like Ingabire to say that officers and men who helped to stop the genocide while the whole world was looking on should face genocide related crimes, its unfortunate. Rwanda is such a fragile country, at least we should accept, and such propaganda can easily lead the country into disunity which the current regime has built for the last 16 years. The people of Rwanda are not ready to take on the ethnic politics and let the people of Rwanda look for people with good CVs to lead our country.
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Eric, Read again
written by Dian Kenneth, March 09, 2010
written by Dian Kenneth, March 09, 2010
Well Eric, it is either by choice or by mistake that you have interpreted my statement the way you have. My statement is still on this blog; go back and read it again, with a sober mind that is, and see if it still means what you have said. If it still does, then sorry!
I particularly mentioned that I am not conversant with the Rwanda issue; that is why, my comment has been rather limited on Rwanda but general on war crimes. You can call it a genocide or anything, but to me, anyone who has committed a war crime should be tried. You have a problem with that? then again sorry!!! Until justice is equally applied, there may be no peace in Rwanda and that is the point most of us are putting across here. Your attempts to stiffle this debate can only be counter-productive therefore.
I particularly mentioned that I am not conversant with the Rwanda issue; that is why, my comment has been rather limited on Rwanda but general on war crimes. You can call it a genocide or anything, but to me, anyone who has committed a war crime should be tried. You have a problem with that? then again sorry!!! Until justice is equally applied, there may be no peace in Rwanda and that is the point most of us are putting across here. Your attempts to stiffle this debate can only be counter-productive therefore.
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Eric, Read Again
written by Dian Kenneth, March 09, 2010
written by Dian Kenneth, March 09, 2010
Whether I am one of them: I do not know what you mean. BUT I belong to a clan of people who strive for equal justice for all regardless of ethinicity, race, religion, sex, political affliation etc. Even the hunter will one day become the hunted and we will still strive for equal justice for all. Is it clear to you now Eric? Good
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ANDREW, THIS ARGUMENT DOESNT ADD UP
written by Ntare OB, March 17, 2010
written by Ntare OB, March 17, 2010
I am astonished at how Mwenda seems to be changing goal posts when It comes to his arguments about Rwanda. Ofcourse it goes without saying that he has great and deep admiration for Kagame. However, you cannt start underscoring the impact of the Iraq war on innocent civilians or the fact that the allied forces committed heinious (sp) crimes in Germany during the second world war. Andrew you seem to suggest that where bigger powers are involved, no blame should be aportioned to them for their own mistakes. You seem to suggest that for political capital one should never dare call a spade a spade. This then makes all your political arguments agains Museveni null.
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SHALLOW ARGUMENT
written by Ntare OB, March 17, 2010
written by Ntare OB, March 17, 2010
Soon you will defend Museveni against Kony and Certainly Dr. Obote (RIP) against NRA rebels and Vice versa during their years in the jungles of Luwero. I really have a problem when the independent seems to be taking sides in situations especially where Rwanda, RPF and Kagame are concerned. Afew years back, Mwenda in his resignation letter to the Monitor publications mentioned that he wasnt prepared to sacrifice his values at the alter of business deals and political correctness (paraphrase). I hope Mr. Mwenda has not gone around to swallow his own words ever since. MWENDA, PLEASE REMAIN INDEPENDENT. It is what has kept me signed in to your publications. For God and my country.
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Democracy may not be possible now in Rwanda
written by Kayumba David, April 12, 2010
written by Kayumba David, April 12, 2010
I think western democracy is impossible in Rwanda in this century. It will work log after the generation of of people bedeviled with ethenic issues as well as other entrenched issues has passed away. Hutus are the majority and Tutsis are in minority. People like in many places have not outgrown ethinic biases. Therefore in a situation like Rwanda, you can only have Hutus win election. But the fact is that Tutsis have genuine concerns to fear a hutu regime given the recent history. So, what we have is a challenge for the Tutsi president to prove himself as a neutral force for the good of all. And we hope this will happen.
Rwandans should learn to appreciate the fact that Tutsi, Hutu and Twa is all good.
Rwandans should learn to appreciate the fact that Tutsi, Hutu and Twa is all good.
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MR MWENDA
written by TJ, April 15, 2010
written by TJ, April 15, 2010
FYI ALL LIVES ARE PRECIOUS.
If ingabire wants to talk about this, Let her do it. Apart from being a politician she is first of all a citizen of Rwanda. Whatever she says, crap or sense, Let the People Decide! Kenneth Matiba said this.
Usually incumbents like to create a false scenario that a country is too young for things like Open Speech. Open speech brings dialogue, debate and out of this, the truth can be easily seen.
Finally, Rwandese are quite capale of choosing one to lead them. Let them have all the choice they can. Anyone who thinks they are not ready must be somewhere 'eating' and thus wants the status quo to stand.
If ingabire wants to talk about this, Let her do it. Apart from being a politician she is first of all a citizen of Rwanda. Whatever she says, crap or sense, Let the People Decide! Kenneth Matiba said this.
Usually incumbents like to create a false scenario that a country is too young for things like Open Speech. Open speech brings dialogue, debate and out of this, the truth can be easily seen.
Finally, Rwandese are quite capale of choosing one to lead them. Let them have all the choice they can. Anyone who thinks they are not ready must be somewhere 'eating' and thus wants the status quo to stand.
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