19th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda: SRSG Onanga-Anyanga warns against ethnic exclusion

8 Apr 2013

19th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda: SRSG Onanga-Anyanga warns against ethnic exclusion

08 April 2013 – Marking the 19th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Burundi, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, has warned against ethnic-based exclusion and highlighted the importance of unity in helping overcome divergences.

In a ceremony held on Sunday, in Bujumbura, to mark the 19th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda, Onanga-Anyanga asserted that ethnic exclusion is the worse one attitude. "In this Burundi that always welcomed newcomers, where providence wanted us to meet today, this is a symbolic celebration. Because here the past also teaches us several lessons, particularly one which says that exclusion of the other on ethnic basis is the worse attitude. It always leads to the denial of the humanity of the other", he said.

According to the Special Representative, unity must be promoted to help address divergences. "The big challenge is to accept, once for all, that what unites them is far more strong and more precious than their divergences".
In his statement, Onanga-Anyanga paid tribute to the people and to the Government of Rwanda for all sacrifices in view of the reconstruction of their country and recalled the commitment of international community to prevent and fight against genocide, ethnic cleaning, war crimes and crimes against humanity.
He recalled some measures especially the establishment of the International Court for Rwanda, the International Court and other international courts. He also greeted the pioneer role played by the African Union which constituent act reaffirms "the right to intervene in a State member on decision of the Conference, in certain grave circumstances, namely: war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity."
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