Refugees safe to come back home

Today we report of 80 refugees who have returned from Uganda. This is a welcome move, which should be followed by the remaining thousands, who are based at the two camps of Nakivale and Nshungerezi. The tripartite agreement between the governments of Rwanda, Uganda and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) to repatriate the refugees who fled Rwanda after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was long overdue. Enough resources from the partners will ensure a smooth repatriation process, in terms of transporting people, and getting them home to safety. We have witnessed with the demobilized former FDLR rebels; who have returned home, are now safe, but have also started to live decent lives in their communities. Those churning out propaganda to the Uganda based refugees have gone on a malicious campaign claiming that should these men and women return they will face retribution. The question to ask is for what? Rwanda is in the 15th Commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi period, in which examples of unity and reconciliation are in abundance. Survivor, stands by perpetrator both telling their story. Those stuck in history are missing great opportunities of being part of the country’s nation building efforts. Sadly, by remaining outside of the current thinking and mood in the country, ironically, they also pose a major threat to the above ideals. This is why the Rwandan government and the rest of the East African Community should adopt a zero tolerance for these people. The way they are forcing citizens to flee from one regional country to another is just not on, and must be stopped. The few responsible are known, and these are just a bunch of criminals who otherwise were involved in the Genocide and cannot face the reality of justice. So instead of running on their own, they would rather carry on a smear campaign, blackmailing innocent citizens to remain out of the country. The sensitization drive by all concerned parties should really focus on the benefits of being home than being stuck in life of the camps. Those 80 who have returned should also spread word to those still in fear outside, that there is no place like home. Ends

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Refugees safe to come back home