Kagame's twisted genocide narrative nearly destroys US-based Nsabumukunzi

In a troubling twist of irony, while Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame continues to use the genocide narrative as a weapon to silence opposition and tighten his rule, new events expose how that very justice system is selectively applied.

Recently, Faustin Nsabumukunzi an alleged leader of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide was found living quietly as a beekeeper in Bridgehampton, an exclusive area on Long Island, New York. Despite being convicted of genocide in absentia by a Rwandan court, Nsabumukunzi had managed to live and work in the U.S. since 2003 by allegedly lying on his visa, green card, and citizenship applications.

The U.S. Department of Justice charged Nsabumukunzi with visa fraud and naturalization fraud. According to the accusations, he concealed his role as a "Sector Councillor" during the 1994 genocide, a time when roughly 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus were slaughtered.

Arrested at his home, Nsabumukunzi pleaded not guilty and now faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted. He has been released on bond, continuing his work as a gardener.

Meanwhile, General Kagame once again displayed how he manipulates the memory of the genocide not for healing, but for political survival. During the 31st commemoration event this year, instead of leading the country in mourning, Kagame launched into an angry, aggressive speech. Rather than focusing on uniting Rwandans, he lashed out at the international community, shouting “Go to hell” to Western nations and urging Rwandans to "choose death over dignity."

Dr. Theogene Rudasingwa, once a close aide and speechwriter for Kagame, described the speech as a national disgrace. He criticized Kagame for turning a solemn remembrance into a stage for fear, anger, and political threats. According to Rudasingwa, Kagame has lost any moral right to lead Rwanda, accusing him of using the genocide as a personal tool to stay in power, punish dissent, and block any Hutu or political opponent from meaningful participation.

While Kagame positions himself globally as the guardian of genocide memory, his own past is filled with accusations of atrocities, suppression of survivors who don't fit his narrative, and brutal crackdowns on those who dare challenge him. The truth is that Kagame treats the genocide as private property — something he owns and uses to silence criticism, intimidate citizens, and excuse his wars in neighboring countries.

Yet, real justice is being selectively enforced. Figures like Nsabumukunzi, whether guilty or not, become convenient trophies for Kagame’s regime to show international partners they are pursuing justice. Meanwhile, Kagame himself accused by many, including former insiders like Rudasingwa, of masterminding actions that fueled Rwanda’s darkest chapters continues to rule with fear.

Also read: “I Hate Kagame and the Inkotanyi” – Moses Turahirwa Breaks His Silence on a Painful Past

Instead of guiding Rwanda toward reconciliation and peace, Kagame has trapped the nation in endless grief, division, and paranoia. April, a month meant for healing, is now used to fan flames of hatred and deepen political control.

The real Rwanda, Rudasingwa reminds us, needs a different path: one that honors all victims with dignity, fosters real truth, and rebuilds bridges with neighbors instead of burning them.

The future of Rwanda demands leadership grounded not in fear or vengeance, but in humility, honesty, and peace. As many Rwandans now whisper more openly, it is Kagame not Rwanda who must step aside for true healing to begin.