Rwandan Minister Jean-Damascène Bizimana claims Belgium funds organizations that deny the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, contradicting Belgium’s commitment to combat genocide denial. He highlights Belgium’s inaction against deniers and its failure to uphold international humanitarian law, especially regarding the FDLR. The remarks coincide with rising tensions between Rwanda and Belgium, particularly over colonial history and ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Jean-Damascène Bizimana, the Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement in Rwanda, has raised serious concerns regarding Belgium’s funding of organizations that deny the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. His comments come in response to remarks by Maxime Prevot, Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister, who asserted that Belgium remains dedicated to enforcing laws against genocide denial. Bizimana accuses Belgium of supporting various notorious organizations that propagate such denial.
Among the organizations mentioned by Minister Bizimana are CLIIR, led by Joseph Matata, and JAMBO ASBL, established by supporters of PARMEHUTU. These groups are reportedly founded by descendants of individuals associated with genocide actions. Bizimana references specific individuals linked to these organizations, including the offspring of convicted perpetrators, highlighting a problematic legacy of genocide denial.
Furthermore, Bizimana criticizes Belgium for failing to prosecute any genocide deniers residing within its borders. The minister asserted that prominent individuals such as Peter Verlinden have not faced any legal consequences. He pointed out Belgium’s inaction regarding United Nations Resolution 2150, which calls for stringent measures against the FDLR, a group he alleges is supported by Belgium.
The minister also questioned Belgium’s commitment to respecting international humanitarian law, particularly in relation to its actions regarding the FDLR and the rights of Congolese refugees affected by the conflict. He demanded clarity on how Belgium can claim humanitarian integrity while these pressing issues persist.
British journalist Linda Melvern weighed in on the situation, discussing the ongoing denial of genocide against the Tutsi. In her recent work, she elucidates how historical narratives have been manipulated to obscure the nature of the genocide, emphasizing the need for accountability and acknowledgment of past atrocities. President Paul Kagame has also expressed his discontent towards Belgium, urging a halt to what he perceives as interference in Rwanda’s affairs, and accused Belgium of attempting to assign blame for its own historical failures.
The statements from Minister Bizimana reveal a contentious relationship between Rwanda and Belgium concerning the recognition and denial of the genocide against the Tutsi. The funding of denial organizations by Belgium raises significant concerns about the commitment to acknowledging historical truth. Additionally, the discourse surrounding the crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Belgium’s role in the ongoing tensions reiterate the complexities of post-colonial legacies in the region. Accountability, recognition, and adherence to international law remain crucial discussions as both countries navigate these sensitive issues.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
