Retired General Fred Ibingira has said Rwanda is fortunate to have President Paul Kagame as Head of State, praising his leadership during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and in guiding the country’s post-genocide recovery.
He made the remarks during the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, held at an event honoring former employees of the then ministries of MININTER, MINIFOP and MINITRASO who were killed in 1994.
Gen Ibingira, a senior officer in the former Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) that led the liberation struggle, reflected on the military leadership that contributed to stopping the genocide. He highlighted the strategic command of then RPA commander, Maj. Gen. Paul Kagame, noting that despite limited resources, the forces managed to halt the killings and rescue many victims.
He said the success of the campaign was driven by discipline, commitment, and clarity of purpose within the RPA, even though not all lives could be saved in time.
The commemoration event brought together senior government officials and other dignitaries.
Gen Ibingira also emphasized the unique nature of the Genocide against the Tutsi, noting that it was committed by Rwandans against fellow Rwandans and ultimately stopped by Rwandans themselves. He credited leadership at the time for later efforts to foster reconciliation between survivors and perpetrators.
He further described the challenges of restoring unity in a society deeply affected by violence, noting that security forces often had to intervene to stabilize communities and rebuild trust during the early post-genocide period.
“Rwandans are fortunate that the same commander who led the struggle to stop the genocide continues to lead the country today. It is one of the greatest blessings we have received—that we were given a leader committed to rebuilding the nation,” Gen Ibingira said.
He added that Rwanda’s stability over the past 32 years reflects deliberate efforts to rebuild institutions, strengthen unity, and restore national cohesion.
In his closing remarks, Gen Ibingira called on leaders at all levels to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and dedication, and urged young people to make responsible choices and contribute to sustaining the country’s progress.
He emphasized that preserving unity and continuing to build a resilient nation now rests with all Rwandans, particularly the younger generation.
