In Rwanda, observers close to Paul Kagame’s government welcome progress on the conclusions of the Duclert report on the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda. But they emphasize that this is not necessarily enough.
Jean-Paul Kimonyo is a researcher and former adviser to President Paul Kagame. He believes that the Duclert report clarifies the dynamics between the French decision-makers at the time and what happened in Rwanda. However, he emphasizes a gap between the content of the report and its conclusion, which excludes the idea of complicity in the genocide:
“The content of the report invalidates the conclusion that France was not involved in the genocide in Rwanda, especially due to the very narrow definition that the report adopts in relation to the issue of participation. One can be an accomplice in the genocide without necessarily sharing the intent of the genocide. ”
“By apologizing, France would be part of this process of forgiveness”
For his part, John Ruku-Rwabyoma, deputy leader of the ruling RPF, welcomes real progress, but points to shortcomings in the process.
“There are certain individuals who should be held accountable. And then the possibility of compensation should be investigated. But in the end, what goes further is that the French government apologizes. Unity and reconciliation have worked miracles in Rwanda. By apologizing, France would be part of this process of forgiveness that is part of our DNA, ”the deputy details.
President Paul Kagame has so far not spoken on the subject. On Friday, the Foreign Ministry hailed an important step towards a common understanding France’s role in the genocide of the Tutsis. He also announced the forthcoming publication of another report, commissioned by the Rwandan government, on the subject.
