SOUTHERN PROVINCE

MUHANGA — Nyamabuye Gacaca court has summoned Father Josephat Hitimana of Kabgayi Catholic Diocese over Genocide crimes. 

The priest is alleged to have killed Thomas Manzi Ruhakana, - an employee of the diocese, who was murdered at the diocese canteen during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. 

Court issued the summons last Friday during the trial of other suspects implicated in the case who include; Fidel Karimwabo, Leonidas Habiyambere (both former diocese employees), Andrea Musonera- a prominent businessman in Gitarama and another suspect only identified as Jean Paul.

During Friday’s hearing however, one of the suspects, Karimwabo, who has previously been convicted of other genocide related cases, denied the charges, although he conceded that he shared a house with the late Ruhakana.

In his defence, he said that Ruhakana could have been killed by people who wanted to get information and photos of youth who were on the militias’ wanted list.

He argued that his co accused Leonidas Habiyambere - who was a police officer then and Musonera who visited the scene after the murder should be held responsible for Ruhakana’s death.

Court postponed the hearing of the case until more evidence is gathered, but judges warned residents against derailing court proceedings.

Ends