“Those who stood for good during the Genocide against the Tutsi will never be forgotten” – Minister Dr Bizimana

By The Inspirer.

Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr Jean Damascène Bizimana, has said that individuals who acted with courage and stood for good during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi will always be remembered and honoured.

He made the remarks on April 13, 2026, during a commemoration ceremony held at the Rebero Genocide Memorial, where 21 politicians who were killed for resisting genocide ideology were laid to rest and honoured.

Dr Bizimana said the day is dedicated to remembering political leaders who refused to align with extremist ideology and instead chose to defend truth, humanity and national integrity during one of the darkest periods in Rwanda’s history.

He emphasized that those who resisted division and sought to protect others in the face of mass violence left a lasting legacy that Rwanda continues to uphold.

“This is a significant day dedicated to honouring the heroic actions of politicians who refused to betray their commitment to Rwanda and distanced themselves from the extremist regime that planned the Genocide against the Tutsi,” he said.

The minister noted that April 13 remains an important moment in Rwanda’s history, linked to liberation, national rebuilding and the continued strengthening of unity.

He also referred to early political narratives in the country’s history, saying they contributed to the emergence of exclusionary governance that later culminated in the 1994 genocide.

The ceremony paid tribute to several politicians, including Dr Gafaranga Théogène, Gisagara Jean Marie Vianney, Dr Habyarimana Jean Baptiste, Kabageni Venantie, Kameya André, Kavaruganda Joseph, Kayiranga Charles, Mushimiyimana Jean Baptiste, Ndagijimana Callixte, Ndasingwa Landuald (Lando), Me Ngango Félicien, Ngulinzira Boniface, Me Niyoyita Aloys, Nyagasaza Narcisse, Nzamurambaho Frédéric, Rucogoza Faustin, Prof Rumiya Jean Gualbert, Rutaremara Jean de la Croix, Ruzindana Godefroid, Rwabukwisi Vincent and Rwayitare Augustin.