Controversy as Genocide remains are exhumed

Controversy has continued to unfold in Nyakabanda cell, Kicukiro ever since remains of over 10 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi were exhumed in a private compound this week. According to Agnes Mukaseti, the owner of the house, the 15 metres –hole in which the remains were discovered was purposely dug as a collection point for running water and garbage. In her explanation about the discovery, Mukaseti vehemently denied the fact that the remains were those of human beings adding that back in the years she frequently dumped cattle bones in the same hole. “I fled the genocide and returned in August 1994 I set up a butchery and much of what has been collected from this place are animal bones. There are no skulls nor are there any long human limbs,” she explained as she raised her eyebrows and shoulders often. Her immediate neighbour, Vestine Akayezu however affirmed that the remains were human attesting that a number of clothes like knickers, women’s bras and caps were discovered during the exhumation. Her husband, Saidi Basesurwango on other hand maintained that they could be animal bones and that thorough research should be done to identify the truth. When The New Times contacted officials of Nyakabanda cell, Evariste Rusangwa of Ibuka, an umbrella organisation for Genocide survivors associations confirmed that the remains were for genocide victims and apparently they have been kept safely for a decent burial. Raging with anger Rusangwa hit back at people like Mukaseti who continue to deny that the Genocide actually happened. “We learnt about the existence of these remains through testimonies in Gacaca Courts, and then we informed her of the day that they would be exhumed. But surprisingly, she did not turn up even to witness whether or not they are human remains.” “Denial of such significant issues can only arouse emotional pain, yet the dimensions and depth of this hole are clear evidence that it was purposely set aside to dispose off victims,” he explained. The Executive Secretary of the cell, Jeanine Mukakaroli, noted that since last Sunday, residents of this area started carrying out activities to ensure that all remains are exhumed and given a decent burial. “Another house is also yet to be demolished as it is believed that the owner – a former Interahamwe killed and buried most of the victims in a hole that was dug inside the house,” she said. Mukaseti’s husband is believed to be on the run in Malawi after a Gacaca Court sentenced him in absentia to 15 years in prison on Genocide charges. Ends

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Controversy as Genocide remains are exhumed