The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) received 483 complaints related to genocide ideology in 2025, signaling a rise from 454 cases reported in 2024, RIB spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira has confirmed.
Speaking on Monday, April 6, 2026, just ahead of the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Dr. Murangira said the increase reflects growing citizen engagement in truth-telling and reporting.
“The numbers are rising, but this is positive because it shows more people are coming forward with the truth,” he said.
During Rwanda’s 100-day commemoration period, which begins on April 7, the RIB also recorded more reports: 207 cases in 2025 compared to 191 in 2024.
Dr. Murangira attributed the rise to individuals who completed sentences for genocide crimes and subsequently provided information about undiscovered victims’ remains.
“When people share information about locations where victims’ bodies were hidden, investigations often reveal additional offenders who concealed evidence, which is a criminal act,” he explained.
Under Article 8 of Law No. 59/2018 on genocide ideology and related offenses, hiding, destroying, altering, or degrading genocide evidence is punishable by seven to nine years in prison and a fine of Rwf 500,000 to 1,000,000.
The law also criminalizes denial, justification, or minimization of genocide, as well as theft or desecration of victims’ remains.
Dr. Murangira said the growing number of reports demonstrates Rwanda’s continued commitment to truth, justice, and preventing the recurrence of genocide ideology.
