Editor,

Refer to the article, "How best can Rwandans tackle Genocide denial, ideology?” (The New Times, April 7).

Unfortunately social divisions, and propaganda and hatred against the Tutsi, which characterised Rwanda for more than three decades, still constitute a challenge to confront Genocide deniers and their supporters.

As we all know like elsewhere, historically Rwandans had multiple identities particularly based on social status, clans and regions. But "Ubunyarwanda (Rwandanness) was considered as a top identity since prehistory. However, after Rwanda’s independence, MDR Parmehutu and MRND changed completely this social context. "Ubuhutu (Hutuness)” replaced Ubunyarwanda.

The divisive and tyrannical regimes of 1960s to 1990s constructed unjustifiable hatred against the Tutsi and hating Tutsi became fashionable, discriminating against or even killing a Tutsi was praised. The songs, education system and the media propaganda supported this policy.

Indeed, denial the Genocide against the Tutsi is an extension of this ideology. Our current government has done a lot to restore Rwandan identity but rigorous education is badly needed to highlight the political illusions of the past—this can be achieved through documenting the pathway to extremism and voluntary confessions by Genocide perpetrators.

Those who survived the Genocide also should document their stories. I suppose the narratives from both sides of this atrocious crime can challenge Genocide deniers and perhaps help educate young people in schools in Rwanda and beyond.

For example, I was recently reading a moving story in this paper about a former Habyarimana’s soldier who put his life in danger by helping the Tutsi during the Genocide by saving the Tutsi.

This man should be approached and helped to publish a book or create a blog at least. But his story should not vanish. 

Butare