The Cour d’Assises de Paris has convicted and sentenced Dr. Eugene Rwamucyo to 27 years in prison for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. His trial began on October 1 and concluded with a verdict on Wednesday, October 30. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, welcomed the verdict, saying, “This is good news for justice and the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Thirty years after this unspeakable crime, it’s important that genocide fugitives—many of whom have gained prominence in Europe—realize that the long arm of justice will eventually catch up with them.” ALSO READ: French court sentences Rwamucyo to 27 years over Genocide crimes Lawyer Richard Gisagara who represented genocide survivors in the trial, echoed Nduhungirehe, saying: “Rwamucyo has been found guilty of genocide, conspiracy, and crimes against humanity, resulting in a 27-year prison sentence. Justice has spoken. My thoughts are with the victims from Butare , Nyumba, Ndora, and beyond.” Gisagara also emphasized that the key point is that he was convicted of conspiracy in preparing genocide, marking only the second time someone has been convicted of this crime in France. Today, some individuals still try to deny the genocide by claiming it was never premeditated. The verdict is, therefore, an essential step in combating new forms of genocide denial with concrete facts. Philbert Gakwenzire, the president of Ibuka, the umbrella of genocide survivors' organizations, also expressed support for the verdict but he noted that some survivors had hoped for a charge of genocide rather than complicity. “Despite his defense’s intent to appeal, it’s clear the sentence is unlikely to change. This case represents justice served for the countless victims,” he said. Gakwenzire added that Rwamucyo’s continued claims of innocence despite the evidence against him underscore the enduring denial among many perpetrators. “This verdict is an important step, but there is still a long journey ahead.” In a call to action, Gakwenzire urged countries that have granted asylum to genocide perpetrators to acknowledge the threat these individuals pose. “Foreign nations must wake up and recognize the need for justice. They should denounce these individuals and ensure that justice is served, allowing Rwandans to heal,” he concluded.
