By Jennifer Fierberg
In a surprising turn of events, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda made disparaging comments about France’s role in the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. In response, the French delegation cancelled their plans deciding not to participate in the 20th Commemoration ceremonies of the Rwandan Genocide.
France and Rwanda have had strained relations for many years due to numerous reasons but in a 2011 meeting with former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, President Kagame is quoted here saying, “he was no longer seeking a French apology for its alleged role in the killings — which French officials have always denied — and both men said they hoped their countries would enjoy warmer ties in future.”
Yet, in an interview last week with French publication Jeune Afrique due to President Kagame’s mercurial nature he changed his mind and stated that, “both France and Belgium had played a “direct role … in the political preparation of genocide and participation in its execution”.
In, what I am sure came as a surprise to the French government; they were quoted as saying, “”These accusations are in contradiction with the process of dialogue and reconciliation that has gone on for several years between our two countries.”
However, what would cause such a change of heart between Kagame and his French counterparts?
According to very reliable sources, President Kagame was furious at a symposium held in Paris, France on April 1, 2014 in which both Dr. Theogene Rudasingwa and Dr. Gerald Gahima of the Rwanda National Congress both made presentations at the invitation of THE COLLOQUE AU PALAIS DU LUXEMBURG (THE CONFERENCE AT THE PALACE OF LUXEMBURG) which houses the French Senate. Dr. Rudasingwa spoke via videotaped presentation entitled THE RWANDAN DRAMA: TRUTH FROM ACTORS . Dr. RUdasingwa spoke in detail, sparing nothing, about President Kagame’s rule for the past 20 years as well as his crimes against humanity before, during and after the 1994 Rwandan Genocide as well as his failed relationships throughout the world due to his international diplomacy based on guilt and manipulation. Dr. Gerald Gahima presented in person on the topic of RPF: How they managed and mismanaged their military victory.
The welcoming of two former members of the RPF and current opponents to Kagame is believed to be the true and accurate reason Kagame shunned France from the commemoration ceremonies, just as a child stamps his foot in protest when his sippy cup is not filled promptly.
Numerous supporters were present at the ceremonies including UNSG Ban Ki Moon and President Museveni of Uganda who made some very interesting threats against opponents of Rwanda in his speech; as well as numerous others from around the world.
Out of curiosity, where were former Presidents Bush and Clinton who are longtime allies of kagame? They were taking in an NCAA game in Texas. Although, former President Clinton did send a tweet stating that Rwanda inspires him.
