EDITORIAL: Sustain hunt for Genocide fugitives

Malawian authorities last week gave in to mounting pressure from particularly their citizens and arrested Genocide suspect, Vincent Murekezi, who is wanted in Rwanda in connection with the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The development followed sustained reports in the Malawian media that exposed the behind the scenes shenanigans that could have played out in the mysterious release of Murekezi following an earlier arrest. The businessman reportedly acquired two Malawian passports under different names, in both cases lying about his past in what is perceived to be attempts to evade justice. He is one of at least seven indicted Genocide suspects believed to be living in Malawi, and his case has reopened questions pertaining to the southern African country’s commitment to help bring these fugitives to book in accordance with the international law. Scores of key Genocide suspects, many of them with arrest warrants hanging over their heads, are believed to be living in several African countries, mostly in the south, and there is a longstanding feeling that their host countries are reluctant to lend a hand in efforts to hunt down and apprehend them – 22 years after allegedly taking part in crimes that resulted in the slaughter of more than a million innocent Rwandans. Indeed it is telling that far off countries, including those in the Scandinavian region, have been more active in ensuring that those whose hands are soaked with the blood of innocent Rwandan lives have their day in court. While some African countries have demonstrated a spirit of camaraderie and solidarity in saying no to impunity, joining with Rwandans in efforts to hold Genocide masterminds accountable, many have only rendered lip service toward this cause. Nonetheless, the recent developments in Malawi offer a great deal of encouragement and serve as proof that there are honourable people out there who are willing to stand up for what is right, even if it means ruffling the feathers of the high and mighty. Kudos to the people of Malawi who have worked so hard to ensure that a key Genocide suspect does not walk freely on the country’s streets simply because he was able to bribe an official or two to get off the hook. This should encourage Rwanda and all decent citizens of the world never to resign in the face of evil and setbacks, and instead sustain efforts to speak the truth and stand on the side with justice at all costs. The ever-growing influence of ICT and social media means that we have at our disposal far-reaching tools to carry on with the struggle for justice and accountability.

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EDITORIAL: Sustain hunt for Genocide fugitives