KIGALI - Chantal Kayitesi, a former serving board member of Avega-Agahozo – an association of widows of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, has demanded that her name be removed from a book entitled "God Sleeps in Rwanda,” authored by former speaker of Parliament  Joseph Sebarenzi. 

According to Kayitesi, the book authored by Sebarenzi, not only mentions her name without her consent, but does so inaccurately.

"It was incredulous when I heard the news because I have not spoken to Mr. Sebarenzi in the past ten years. I called him and during our brief conversation I requested that my name be removed from his book.”

"My name was used in the book without my permission and I consider this an invasion of my privacy. I am a private citizen in the United States as I was in Rwanda and I am not a public figure therefore I have not given up the right to privacy,” a statement from Kayitesi reads in part.

"Although part of the book tells a story that many survivors can identify themselves with, many of Sebarenzi’s statements and analyses can only apply to him as a politician but become preposterous when he assumes that we have the same motives,” Kayitesi’s statement adds.

The former board member also emphasizes the fact that Sebarenzi’s right to freely express his views should not obstruct her own.

In the same regard she affirms her ability to speak for herself and capability of making her own statement if and when appropriate.

"I am stunned that he neglected to consult me, the only reliable source of information that he could possibly find before making his statement.

"Using my name is unacceptable and I request that it (name) be removed from Mr. Sebarenzi’s book and from any other publication whether in print, in audio or online. I hope this will take place without delay,” Kayitesi emphasized.

She copied the letter to Simon and Schuster Editions, the publishers of Sebarenzi’s book, Ibuka president, Theodore Simburudali and Chantal Kabasinga, the current president of Avega.

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