RE: “Genocide trials: UK should learn from other countries” (The New Times, August 1). It feels like a bad dream which came to reality, isn’t it? But let’s face the reality, one needs to know UK judiciary philosophy beyond government policy and diplomatic rhetoric. In this case, it was a strategy that backfired from the prosecution team – not “cooperating” with the courts.
Editor,
RE: "Genocide trials: UK should learn from other countries” (The New Times, August 1). It feels like a bad dream which came to reality, isn’t it? But let’s face the reality, one needs to know UK judiciary philosophy beyond government policy and diplomatic rhetoric. In this case, it was a strategy that backfired from the prosecution team – not "cooperating” with the courts.
In United Kingdom, the Judiciary can do just about anything. Also true is that even what is considered basic question is always where "the burden of proof” lies. One needs to read the full judgment to appreciate the weakness exhibited in the prosecution case.
Way forward? UK will most likely prosecute the suspects and it is possible that it will hand them life sentences. But someone needs to devise the right strategy with thorough coordination.
There should be serious consideration for filing prosecution under UK laws and in UK, all through a proper strategy. Possibly through local survivors and victims’ associations that are legally recognised on UK soil. Yet these associations cannot succeed on their own. They will need full backing in material support from the Government of Rwanda and moral support from Ibuka (Genocide survivors’ umbrella) worldwide.
Dr Harorimana,A British citizen of Rwandan origin.