Genocide: There is still hope that Akazu members will face justice

The visit to Rwanda by France's anti-terrorism prosecutor marks a long-awaited turning point in the realm of justice. While this visit comes three decades late, it ignites a flicker of hope for survivors who have endured a seemingly endless wait for accountability in regards to the Genocide against the Tutsi. For far too long, France has been a haven for key actors in the genocide, with only a handful of them tried so far when compared to the ‘Big Fish’ who have lived in safety of three decades, despite the indictments that were issued against them close to two decades back. ALSO READ ‘Time is against us’: French prosecutor on bringing Genocide fugitives to book Members of the Akazu, the inner circle that orchestrated the slaughter, have lived comfortably under the protection of French soil. This includes Agathe Habyarimana, the widow of the former Rwandan president, who, despite being the patron of Akazu, has never been brought to book and continues to live freely in the European country. However, the imprescriptible nature of genocide – the fact that the crime can be prosecuted regardless of the time elapsed – offers a powerful legal tool. This visit signals a shift in France's approach, potentially paving the way for the extradition or prosecution of these fugitives within France itself. ALSO READ: After Kabuga’s arrest, which other Genocide fugitives are roaming freely in France? Still, time is of the essence. While the crime itself does not expire, there is an expiry to human life, these accused mass murderers are not immortal, and inevitably, they are fast approaching their transition from earth. The case of Felicien Kabuga – who incidentally was arrested from France in 2020 after decades on the run – resonates well. Despite a global manhunt up by a UN court that lasted over two decades, Kabuga, who is infamously known as the Financier of the Genocide is set to walk free after he was diagnosed with clinical dementia owing to his advanced age. The scars of the genocide remain raw in Rwanda. Survivors grapple with the trauma, and the pursuit of justice remains a cornerstone of healing. Witnessing those responsible face the consequences of their actions is crucial for closure. ALSO READ: French prosecutors seek 30-year jail term for Genocide suspect Munyemana The road ahead will likely be long and complex. However, this visit signifies a renewed commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice. It offers a sliver of hope for the victims, a testament to the enduring power of seeking accountability, no matter how delayed. Survivors deserve to see those who orchestrated their suffering held to account. Only then can the healing process truly begin, and only then can both nations move forward from this dark chapter in their shared history.

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Genocide: There is still hope that Akazu members will face justice