KARONGI – The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for the fight against Genocide (CNLG) Jean de Dieu Mucyo, has confirmed allegations that the construction of Bisesero Genocide Memorial centre in Karongi District was marred by various irregularities.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Mucyo said, "It is crystal clear that the construction and management of this memorial centre is substandard. Soon it will be established whether to refurbish it or build a new one.”

He added, "We have set up a team to investigate allegations of mismanagement and all culprits involved will face the law.”

Mucyo made the remarks yesterday shortly after touring the centre in the company of local leaders and hundreds of residents.

His comments come amid widespread feuds among local leaders blaming each other for the mismanagement of the memorial centre.

Meanwhile the Supreme Court has pledged Rwf1m to support efforts of renovating the centre.

The revelation was made by Justice Louis Marie Mugenzi who was speaking on behalf of Supreme Court president, Aloiysie Cyanzaire, shortly after laying wreaths on the mass grave in which the remains of over 50,000 Genocide victims’ were laid to rest.

"We must join hands in remembering the victims and learn from the past to ensure a better future. Our participation is a strong indication that justice must prevail at all times,” Mugenzi said.

He explained that the decision to donate the funds was taken after consultations established that this was the best way to identify with the local population.

Bernard Kayumba, the Mayor of Karongi, reaffirmed his commitment towards improving the memorial centre.

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