Statement on the decision to close investigation into the downing of President Habyarimana’s plane

Kigali, 24 December 2018

The Government of Rwanda has learned, through the accused, of the decision by Judges Jean-Marc Herbaut and Nathalie Poux to definitively close their investigation into the downing of President Habyarimana’s plane in 1994 without charges, due to lack of evidence.

Nine Rwandan officials were indicted in 2006 in this politically-motivated investigation that lasted more than 20 years. 

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Government Spokesperson, Dr Richard Sezibera, said:

“We welcome this decision which brings to an end a brazen attempt over two decades to obstruct justice for the Genocide against the Tutsi, and prevent accountability for both the perpetrators and their wilful accomplices.”