Genocide trials: After 30 Years, Justice at Least; Biguma Sentenced to Life Imprisonment

On the night of December 18, 2024, the Paris Court of Assizes in France delivered a final verdict in the appeal trial of Philippe Hategekimana Manier, also known as Biguma. This former gendarmerie officer in the former Nyabisindu Commune, now part of Nyanza District in the southern province of Rwanda, was convicted of genocide and crimes against humanity and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Biguma was charged and found guilty of direct involvement in the massacre of Tutsi civilians in different areas of Nyanza District, including Ntyazo, Nyabubare, Nyamure, ISAR Songa, and elsewhere. The court determined that he was responsible for the killings of many people at Nyabubare and Nyamure hills, where Tutsi had sought refuge. He was also found guilty of ordering the killing of 28 Tutsi at a checkpoint known as “Akazu k’Amazi” and supplying a 60mm mortar weapon used in the massacres.

Despite his claims that he was not present at some checkpoints in Nyanza, Rwesero, and Mushirarungu, the court found him guilty of complicity, as those who carried out the killings were his subordinates and accomplices.

Relief for genocide survivors

Though delayed, justice has finally been delivered. For survivors of the genocide against the Tutsi in Nyanza, this verdict brings a sense of relief.

“We expected this sentence, and we are happy because he has been held accountable for the crimes he committed against us. Even though he is being punished 30 years later, at least justice has been served, easing some of our pain,” said Jean Baptiste Niyitegeka, President of IBUKA in Nyanza District.

Survivors also emphasized the importance of ending the culture of impunity. “Trials like these should serve as lessons to other countries, including those neighboring Rwanda, that still harbor genocide perpetrators from 1994 who continue to live freely,” Niyitegeka added.

Praise for France’s commitment

In a spirit of gratitude, IBUKA leaders in Nyanza and local officials commended the progress made in Rwanda-France relations, particularly in the pursuit of justice against genocide suspects residing in France.

“Achieving justice is a result of the strengthened ties between the two nations. This should serve as an example for other countries to hand over or prosecute genocide perpetrators hiding within their borders,” Niyitegeka noted.

For Niyitegeka, Biguma’s sentencing marks a significant milestone in the quest for justice. He emphasized: “Thirty years after the genocide, survivors are aging and passing away. It is crucial to expedite justice so they can witness it in their lifetimes.”

Biguma’s appeal trial, which began on November 4, 2024, featured over 66 witnesses, including experts on Rwanda and the genocide. After six weeks of proceedings, the court rejected his defense, which claimed he was in Kigali at the time of the crimes. This was contradicted by eyewitness testimonies and compelling evidence presented during the trial.

Biguma’s conviction serves as a lesson to the world that genocide is a crime that cannot expire, and no one should escape accountability. France has demonstrated its commitment to international principles of justice by tackling the culture of impunity, contributing to global peace and reconciliation.

The Rwandan community in France (CRF) celebrated the ruling as a testament to international unity in the fight against genocide.

Philippe Hategekimana Manier’s trial and conviction will be remembered as a landmark case, proving that justice, although delayed, can still be achieved. For survivors of the genocide against the Tutsi in Nyanza District, this verdict is a crucial step forward in their ongoing journey toward truth and justice.

Telesphore KABERUKA