The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has raised concern over a significant increase in cases related to genocide ideology, with its spokesperson, Dr. Thierry Murangira, pointing to the ongoing crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the activities of genocidal militia groups as key contributors to this alarming trend.
Speaking during the 2025 Genocide Commemoration Week, Dr. Murangira disclosed that RIB received 82 case files involving individuals suspected of genocide ideology, discrimination, and incitement to division, a notable rise from 52 cases recorded during the same period last year. A total of 87 individuals are currently under investigation in connection with these offenses.
Dr. Murangira explained that this increase is not coincidental but deeply linked to the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, where groups responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi have found space to regroup and spread hate. He particularly mentioned the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a rebel group formed by remnants of the perpetrators of the Genocide, which continues to operate within Congolese territory.
The genocidal ideology that once overran Rwanda has not only been overlooked but also supported, particularly in the DR Congo through armed groups like the FDLR.
Alarmingly, the FDLR has reportedly been integrated into the Congolese National Army (FARDC) and aligned with other militia outfits in the battle against the AFC/M23 movement that is affiliated with Tutsi and other minorities that reside in Eastern DRC. This collaboration has raised serious concerns over the revival and normalisation of genocidal narratives, which are then echoed across borders through propaganda, social media, and regional alliances.
Authorities have warned that despite nearly three decades of post-genocide progress, genocide denial and revisionism remain ongoing threats, often amplified by regional instability and misinformation campaigns.
RIB calls on citizens, especially youth and social media users, to promote messages of peace and reject any form of hate speech or ideology that undermines national unity.
