Canada’s decision to deport Mugesera a step in the right direction

The Federal Court of Canada, Wednesday, concluded that Leon Mugesera, a Rwandan Genocide suspect, should be deported back home to face trial in connection with his role in the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi. Mugesera had returned to court on Monday as he made a last attempt to block a Supreme Court order for his deportation, claiming he would be tortured upon return to Rwanda. The claims were dismissed, and he was set to be deported yesterday, but was taken to hospital after allegedly becoming unconscious. It is clear that Mugesera has exhausted all options despite the fact Canadian authorities were patient enough not to deport him soon after the Supreme Court ruling, seven years ago. It is important that Mugesera is held accountable for inciting the masses to slaughter their compatriots in a speech he delivered in 1992, and it will be a relief to the victims of his alleged crime if he stands trial in the same country where the crime was committed. Canada’s decision to deport him is commendable and provides Rwanda yet another opportunity to demonstrate its capacity to try high-profile Genocide cases. The country has under gone various judicial reforms and there should be no doubt that the suspect will not receive fair trial, as has been the argument in court rooms as the decision to deport or extradite suspects are deliberated. Holding everyone to account for their actions, not least genocide crimes, is something that needs the unequivocal support from the international community. Ends

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Canada’s decision to deport Mugesera a step in the right direction