Senate President Dr. Kalinda François-Xavier has called on African countries to strengthen cooperation with Rwanda in tracking and prosecuting individuals suspected of participating in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi who continue to live abroad.
He made the appeal on Monday during a parliamentary commemoration event marking the 32nd anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, held in honour of former employees of the then National Development Council (CND) who were killed in 1994.
Dr. Kalinda commended countries that have already taken steps to support Rwanda in bringing genocide fugitives to justice, saying such efforts contribute to international accountability and reinforce the fight against impunity.
He stressed that members of Parliament have a duty to safeguard national unity and good governance, particularly during the commemoration period, by addressing any factors that could undermine Rwanda’s social cohesion and development.
He cited genocide denial, minimisation, and the persistence of genocide ideology in parts of the region as key challenges that require continued vigilance and coordinated response.
Dr. Kalinda further emphasized the importance of enforcing laws aimed at preventing and punishing genocide-related crimes, including denial and revisionism, noting that legal accountability remains central to eliminating genocide ideology.
He said lawmakers will continue engaging citizens and promoting the “Ndi Umunyarwanda” programme, arguing that unity and shared identity remain essential foundations for sustainable development.
The Senate President reiterated Parliament’s commitment to supporting government efforts to ensure that genocide suspects residing in foreign countries are located and brought to justice.
He welcomed progress made by countries that have cooperated with Rwanda in this regard, while urging African states that have yet to act—particularly within the continent—to join ongoing efforts.
He also noted that commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi should go hand in hand with honouring the courage and sacrifice of the RPF-Inkotanyi forces, led by Commander-in-Chief President Paul Kagame, who stopped the genocide.
