Recent news reminds us of the importance of providing justice to the victims of the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda in 1994. In Belgium, the trial of Pierre Basabose and Séraphin Twahirwa, two Rwandans accused of having financed and led an interahamwe militia, has begun before the Assize Court of Brussels.
For genocide survivors, this trial represents a test, but also an opportunity to make their voices heard and bear witness to the horror they experienced. Among them, Philomène, who lost her entire family during the massacres in Gikondo. She decided to become a civil party in this case, despite her fears of reopening old wounds. For her, it is an opportunity to feel liberated and to have the feeling of having accomplished what she was called to do.
However, the defense of the two accused is revolting for the victims. They completely deny the accusations against them and question the credibility of the witnesses. This attitude reinforces the feeling of injustice among the survivors, who note with indignation the absence of remorse among the accused.
Brigitte Safari, also a survivor of the genocide and living in Belgium, is witnessing such a trial for the first time. She believes that it is crucial to be present, in order to be able to witness the judgment and hope for a conviction for these abominable acts. Brigitte expresses her desire to see the culprits, who committed acts of limitless cruelty, be condemned. His courage allows him to stand in the face of horror and injustice, and to hope that justice will be done.
The federal prosecutor requested the guilt of the accused for war crimes and crimes of genocide. Pierre Basabose and Séraphin Twahirwa, who arrived in Belgium several years ago, were the subject of international arrest warrants issued by Rwanda. Their arrest in Belgium three years ago allowed the opening of this trial.
This trial is of capital importance for the victims of the Tutsi genocide. It represents a crucial step in their quest for justice and recognition. By testifying and becoming a civil party, the survivors hope that their suffering will be recognized and that those responsible for these despicable crimes will be convicted.
We must support the voices of victims and the efforts to achieve justice. These trials are essential to prevent future atrocities and to remind the world of the importance of tolerance, respect for human dignity and justice. Hopefully these days of advocacy will help victims find some form of healing and reparation, and that justice will finally be served for the thousands of lives lost during this unimaginable genocide.