Alice Wairimu Nderitu, the United Nations Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, has welcomed the 27-year prison sentence handed to Eugene Rwamucyo by a court in France for his involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The Cour d’assises de Paris on October 30 found Rwamucyo, 65, guilty of genocide, conspiracy to commit genocide, and crimes against humanity.
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In a statement dated November 5, Nderitu noted that while Rwamucyo was acquitted of certain charges and continues to deny any wrongdoing, the conviction for complicity in genocide and crimes against humanity, as well as conspiracy to prepare such crimes, is significant.
"As we continue commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, we must not lose sight of the importance of accountability in breaking the cycle of impunity and recurrence,” she said. "Honoring the victims means actively pursuing justice for the crimes committed against them, as well as reinforcing efforts to prevent such atrocities from happening again.”
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Nderitu emphasized that criminal accountability is crucial, both as a means of delivering justice for past crimes and as a foundation for a more secure future.
"When the consequences of past criminal acts continue to inflict suffering in the present, achieving justice becomes essential in building a better society,” she added.
She highlighted the importance of steps like the court’s ruling in fostering a culture of accountability that transcends individual cases. "Fair, impartial and independent justice is fundamental to a democratic society where human rights are protected, and impunity is not tolerated. All societies deserve this, and those in positions of influence must accelerate efforts to achieve justice without delay,” she said.
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Urgent need to hold genocide perpetrators accountable
Nderitu stressed the ongoing need to bring perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to justice. Despite over 1,000 indictments and international arrest warrants issued across 33 countries, she noted, many genocide suspects remain at large.
"This level of impunity is unacceptable; more than 30 years after these heinous crimes were committed. It undermines the principles of justice and accountability and must be urgently addressed,” she asserted.
"Justice for victims is essential, not only to honor their memory but also to build the foundations of a future without recurrence.”
Nderitu called on all those with the ability to advance this cause to make it a priority.
"I urge all responsible parties to collaborate in the pursuit of justice, especially for genocide, the gravest of crimes. Member States hosting individuals accused of these offenses must fully cooperate with the UN International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT), which remains pivotal in supporting justice for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,” she said.
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She underscored the role of the IRMCT in assisting national jurisdictions with prosecuting perpetrators. However, she emphasized that true support begins with countries denying impunity to those accused of such serious crimes.
"The best form of assistance comes from Member States where alleged genocidaires reside, by ensuring that impunity is not an option,” she concluded.