MISNA
25 January 2008
At least three people were killed, though some sources are already reporting 10, in an explosion this morning in a suburb of the Lebanese capital Beirut. According to the Lebanese press, the blast occurred in the Christian neighbourhood of Furn al Shebak, in east Beirut, at the passage of a military convoy, killing at least three people and injuring an unspecified number. It remains unclear whether the victims were civilians or soldiers. The local press reported that the attack targeted an intelligence officer of the Internal Security Forces (ISF). Last week at least four people were killed in a bomb attack that targeted a US Embassy vehicle in the northern suburb of Beirut.
26 January, 2008
INVESTIGATION INTO DEAD CIVILIANS PASSED OFF AS REBELS.
MISNA
25 January 2008
“Members of the army carry out murders this way, making civilians appear to have died in combat by placing weapons on them”, Alexander Rodríguez, an ex-army sergeant, told broadcaster TV Caracol, adding that he witnessed at least five such killings of civilians last year in north-west Colombia. Rodríguez, a 17-year army veteran, reported the incidents to the Attorney General's Office, which opened an investigation. The killings date back to a period between June and July of last year during an anti-rebel operation in San Calixto and El Tarra, in Norte de Santander department:
“The order was to clean (by killing) the town of people who were collaborating with the guerrillas”, explained Rodríguez, claiming he had received death threats from some officers responsible for the operations. Questioned about the allegations by the same TV broadcast, Army General Joaquín Cortés, who is investigating the matter, said Rodríguez “has had several disciplinary problems”. In a press conference yesterday in Bogotá, the international monitoring mission on arbitrary executions and impunity (made up by 13 experts from Germany, the United States, France and Britain) released a new report, confirming that the murder of civilians take place in military operations and are passed off as “deaths in combat”. According to a United Nations report issued last year, the army is responsible for most human rights violations.
25 January 2008
“Members of the army carry out murders this way, making civilians appear to have died in combat by placing weapons on them”, Alexander Rodríguez, an ex-army sergeant, told broadcaster TV Caracol, adding that he witnessed at least five such killings of civilians last year in north-west Colombia. Rodríguez, a 17-year army veteran, reported the incidents to the Attorney General's Office, which opened an investigation. The killings date back to a period between June and July of last year during an anti-rebel operation in San Calixto and El Tarra, in Norte de Santander department:
“The order was to clean (by killing) the town of people who were collaborating with the guerrillas”, explained Rodríguez, claiming he had received death threats from some officers responsible for the operations. Questioned about the allegations by the same TV broadcast, Army General Joaquín Cortés, who is investigating the matter, said Rodríguez “has had several disciplinary problems”. In a press conference yesterday in Bogotá, the international monitoring mission on arbitrary executions and impunity (made up by 13 experts from Germany, the United States, France and Britain) released a new report, confirming that the murder of civilians take place in military operations and are passed off as “deaths in combat”. According to a United Nations report issued last year, the army is responsible for most human rights violations.
25 January, 2008
President Bush Heading to Africa Next Month; Will Visit Rwanda.
AllAfrica.com
25 January 2007
Editor's Note: Ghana and Benin are 2 of the countries to be linked up to ECOWAS and Chevron's West African Gas Pipeline. Tanzania is building a railway to Rwanda and is Rwanda's ownly immediate source of oil while the tragedy in Kenya continues to shut down Mombasa port.
Washington, DC
The White House announced Friday that United States President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush will visit five countries in a one-week tour of Africa next month.
The trip between February 15 and 21 will include stops in Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia. The White House said Bush will meet the presidents of these countries "to discuss how the United States can continue to partner with African countries to support continued democratic reform, respect for human rights, free trade, open investment regimes, and economic opportunity across the continent."
It also said the trip will be an opportunity for President Bush to "review the firsthand the significant progress" made in the fight against HIV/Aids and malaria. The United States has spent billions on programs fighting HIV/Aids, malaria and other diseases.
Bush has called on Congress to double funding for President's Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar) to U.S.$30 billion. Pepfar focuses primarily on Africa. According to government statistics, the program has helped more than one million people get antiretroviral treatment.
Bush last visited Africa in 2003.
25 January 2007
Editor's Note: Ghana and Benin are 2 of the countries to be linked up to ECOWAS and Chevron's West African Gas Pipeline. Tanzania is building a railway to Rwanda and is Rwanda's ownly immediate source of oil while the tragedy in Kenya continues to shut down Mombasa port.
Washington, DC
The White House announced Friday that United States President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush will visit five countries in a one-week tour of Africa next month.
The trip between February 15 and 21 will include stops in Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia. The White House said Bush will meet the presidents of these countries "to discuss how the United States can continue to partner with African countries to support continued democratic reform, respect for human rights, free trade, open investment regimes, and economic opportunity across the continent."
It also said the trip will be an opportunity for President Bush to "review the firsthand the significant progress" made in the fight against HIV/Aids and malaria. The United States has spent billions on programs fighting HIV/Aids, malaria and other diseases.
Bush has called on Congress to double funding for President's Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar) to U.S.$30 billion. Pepfar focuses primarily on Africa. According to government statistics, the program has helped more than one million people get antiretroviral treatment.
Bush last visited Africa in 2003.
OTTI’S DEATH, MORE CONFIRMATIONS.
MISNA
24 January 2008
“He spoke to ‘Radio Mega Fm’ for 20 minutes and tried to justify himself for having killed Otti…We shall see if people will understand”: said Walter Ochora, mediator in the peace talks, concerning the radio broadcast confirmation from the LRA leader Joseph Kony that the LRA deputy leader, Vincent Otti, was killed. Yesterday, Otti’s murder was announced by the deputy president of South Sudan, Riek Machar. According to the ‘Daily Monitor’, LRA sources said that Kony has “targeted” all those within the LRA who have criticized him for murdering Otti, suggesting that he did it because of an insubordinate act for differences over the partition of some money.
David Nyekorach-Matsanga, new LRA negotiator at the ‘peace talks’ in Juba also confirmed Otti’s death, while the talks are expected to resume next week: “It is official, Otti is dead. Machar said it and Kony himself also said it” according to Matsanga, adding: “Otti’s destiny is a closed chapter. Now we have to concentrate on the peace talks”. The Ugandan minister of the interior, Ruhakana Rugunda, head negotiator for the government in Juba, expressed himself likewise: “Otti’s death is an unpleasant event, but the peace process is a more important issue. Secondary issues shall be dealt with at a later time”.
However, within the Ugandan government itself, others have expressed concern over the talks. The minister of foreign affair, Ocello Oryem, said “Otti’s death leaves a great void in the ranks of the LRA. His murder undermines trust in Kony and shall certainly obstruct the talks”.
24 January 2008
“He spoke to ‘Radio Mega Fm’ for 20 minutes and tried to justify himself for having killed Otti…We shall see if people will understand”: said Walter Ochora, mediator in the peace talks, concerning the radio broadcast confirmation from the LRA leader Joseph Kony that the LRA deputy leader, Vincent Otti, was killed. Yesterday, Otti’s murder was announced by the deputy president of South Sudan, Riek Machar. According to the ‘Daily Monitor’, LRA sources said that Kony has “targeted” all those within the LRA who have criticized him for murdering Otti, suggesting that he did it because of an insubordinate act for differences over the partition of some money.
David Nyekorach-Matsanga, new LRA negotiator at the ‘peace talks’ in Juba also confirmed Otti’s death, while the talks are expected to resume next week: “It is official, Otti is dead. Machar said it and Kony himself also said it” according to Matsanga, adding: “Otti’s destiny is a closed chapter. Now we have to concentrate on the peace talks”. The Ugandan minister of the interior, Ruhakana Rugunda, head negotiator for the government in Juba, expressed himself likewise: “Otti’s death is an unpleasant event, but the peace process is a more important issue. Secondary issues shall be dealt with at a later time”.
However, within the Ugandan government itself, others have expressed concern over the talks. The minister of foreign affair, Ocello Oryem, said “Otti’s death leaves a great void in the ranks of the LRA. His murder undermines trust in Kony and shall certainly obstruct the talks”.
24 January, 2008
United States Extends Additional Military Aid to Rwanda.
The Weekly Observer (Kampala)
24 January 2008
Sulah Nuwamanya
The United States Government is giving $7 million in military aid to Rwanda, an embassy official in Kigali has disclosed. The assistance will be channeled through America's Africa Contingency Operational Training Assistance (ACOTA) programme. (emphasis mine-Editor.)
Brian George, the US Embassy Public Affairs Officer, says the US provides military training and equipment for the Rwandan mission in Sudan's troubled region of Darfur. Under ACOTA, a military co-operation programme with the continent, the US trains African military personnel in various fields.
For Rwanda, it has mainly been in the area of peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance conducted at the Gako military training centre. The centre trains soldiers bound for the Rwandan mission in Darfur under the supervision of US military experts.
"The co-operation between us in the area of defence has made many strides," said George. "We disbursed about $7m last year in support of Rwandan army and we want to see how we can make more interventions."
George added that there is a military exchange programme through the US Embassy military attaché in Kigali, which has enabled several Rwandan officers to get training in the US.
"We are enjoying better relations with the US in the area of defence. There is a lot they have done in terms of improving the skills of our army as well as equipping of military training centres in the country," said Maj. Gen. Patrick Nyanvumba, Rwanda's army officer in charge of engineering and logistics. Besides, in the past six years, the US European Command's Humanitarian Assistance Program has supported construction of seven primary schools in Rwanda.
According to US Ambassador, Michael Arrietti, the programme is designed to assist in the development of capacity building activities that address the basic humanitarian needs of civilian populations. Present at the function was the US Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, Rear Admiral James M Hart, Gen. Nyavumba and Thercise Musabyeyezu, Rwanda's Secretary General in the Ministry of Education.
Rear Admiral Hart was also in the country to represent his government in what the US Embassy described as high profile security talks. (emphasis mine-Editor.)
"It is true Rear Admiral Hart is to hold discussions with his counterparts in Rwanda in relation to the progress made in the military co-operation between the two partners," George said.
The increased interest in Rwanda also comes at a time the US is planning to establish its African Defense Command in Africa (AFRICOM).
According to statistics from the US Embassy in Kigali, in 2007 alone America provided approximately $167 million in official assistance to Rwanda.
In a related development, the new US Embassy building in Kigali whose construction is estimated to have cost about $80 million, is set to open early next month.
George confirmed that "the constructors are making their final works and ready to handover the building" which is located in the business district of Kacyiru. Its prominent location on top of one of the many hills in the city will make it one of the most impressive buildings in Kigali.
24 January 2008
Sulah Nuwamanya
The United States Government is giving $7 million in military aid to Rwanda, an embassy official in Kigali has disclosed. The assistance will be channeled through America's Africa Contingency Operational Training Assistance (ACOTA) programme. (emphasis mine-Editor.)
Brian George, the US Embassy Public Affairs Officer, says the US provides military training and equipment for the Rwandan mission in Sudan's troubled region of Darfur. Under ACOTA, a military co-operation programme with the continent, the US trains African military personnel in various fields.
For Rwanda, it has mainly been in the area of peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance conducted at the Gako military training centre. The centre trains soldiers bound for the Rwandan mission in Darfur under the supervision of US military experts.
"The co-operation between us in the area of defence has made many strides," said George. "We disbursed about $7m last year in support of Rwandan army and we want to see how we can make more interventions."
George added that there is a military exchange programme through the US Embassy military attaché in Kigali, which has enabled several Rwandan officers to get training in the US.
"We are enjoying better relations with the US in the area of defence. There is a lot they have done in terms of improving the skills of our army as well as equipping of military training centres in the country," said Maj. Gen. Patrick Nyanvumba, Rwanda's army officer in charge of engineering and logistics. Besides, in the past six years, the US European Command's Humanitarian Assistance Program has supported construction of seven primary schools in Rwanda.
According to US Ambassador, Michael Arrietti, the programme is designed to assist in the development of capacity building activities that address the basic humanitarian needs of civilian populations. Present at the function was the US Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa, Rear Admiral James M Hart, Gen. Nyavumba and Thercise Musabyeyezu, Rwanda's Secretary General in the Ministry of Education.
Rear Admiral Hart was also in the country to represent his government in what the US Embassy described as high profile security talks. (emphasis mine-Editor.)
"It is true Rear Admiral Hart is to hold discussions with his counterparts in Rwanda in relation to the progress made in the military co-operation between the two partners," George said.
The increased interest in Rwanda also comes at a time the US is planning to establish its African Defense Command in Africa (AFRICOM).
According to statistics from the US Embassy in Kigali, in 2007 alone America provided approximately $167 million in official assistance to Rwanda.
In a related development, the new US Embassy building in Kigali whose construction is estimated to have cost about $80 million, is set to open early next month.
George confirmed that "the constructors are making their final works and ready to handover the building" which is located in the business district of Kacyiru. Its prominent location on top of one of the many hills in the city will make it one of the most impressive buildings in Kigali.
23 January, 2008
IRC Calls Attention to Humanitarian Disaster in Congo,
MISNA
22 January 2008
From 1998 to the present an estimated average of 45,000 people have been killed every month in RD Congo because of the war that, in some areas, continues to affect the country according to a study by the ‘International Rescue Committee’ (IRC), which says the total number of dead was some 5.4 million. “The war, and its aftermath, widely surpasses any other conflict since WWII. In one decade, the country has lost the equivalent of the population of Denmark” said George Rupp, president of IRC. This mortality rate is some 60% higher than the average for Sub-Saharan Africa and it is mostly due to malnutrition and disease (malaria, diarrhea e pneumonia) all of which are easily curable or preventable. IRC conducted the study last year with the Australian Burnet Institute. Researchers visited, from January 2006 to April 2007, 14,000 families in 35 districts of 11 provinces. The results of this study were then combined with data collected by IRC previously.
22 January 2008
From 1998 to the present an estimated average of 45,000 people have been killed every month in RD Congo because of the war that, in some areas, continues to affect the country according to a study by the ‘International Rescue Committee’ (IRC), which says the total number of dead was some 5.4 million. “The war, and its aftermath, widely surpasses any other conflict since WWII. In one decade, the country has lost the equivalent of the population of Denmark” said George Rupp, president of IRC. This mortality rate is some 60% higher than the average for Sub-Saharan Africa and it is mostly due to malnutrition and disease (malaria, diarrhea e pneumonia) all of which are easily curable or preventable. IRC conducted the study last year with the Australian Burnet Institute. Researchers visited, from January 2006 to April 2007, 14,000 families in 35 districts of 11 provinces. The results of this study were then combined with data collected by IRC previously.
GOMA: A SNAG IN NEGOTIATIONS.
MISNA
22 January 2008
The expected closing ceremony of the Peace and Development Conference in North and South Kivu, which was to include the signing in Goma of a statement of commitment for an immediate ceasefire and the progressive demobilization of some 15 armed groups in the two Kivu provinces has been cancelled. National civil society sources have confirmed to MISNA that the delegation of the rebel group led by the dissident and pro-Rwandan general Laurent Nkunda, the National Congress for the Defense of the People (NCDP), has imposed more conditions in today’s talks with the ‘Bureau du comité des sages (BDCS). The CNDP, said a spokesman, had asked for the creation of a bilateral technical commission to monitor the conference’s recommendations. It is also believed to have asked for the signature of two separate agreements, one with the government and one with other armed groups in the region. “The participants are still being receptive, but patience has a limit and if we do not reach an accord as soon as possible, annoyance will grow” said a civil society representative, who laments that she was not sufficiently engaged in the decision process. The talks are to continue tomorrow.
22 January 2008
The expected closing ceremony of the Peace and Development Conference in North and South Kivu, which was to include the signing in Goma of a statement of commitment for an immediate ceasefire and the progressive demobilization of some 15 armed groups in the two Kivu provinces has been cancelled. National civil society sources have confirmed to MISNA that the delegation of the rebel group led by the dissident and pro-Rwandan general Laurent Nkunda, the National Congress for the Defense of the People (NCDP), has imposed more conditions in today’s talks with the ‘Bureau du comité des sages (BDCS). The CNDP, said a spokesman, had asked for the creation of a bilateral technical commission to monitor the conference’s recommendations. It is also believed to have asked for the signature of two separate agreements, one with the government and one with other armed groups in the region. “The participants are still being receptive, but patience has a limit and if we do not reach an accord as soon as possible, annoyance will grow” said a civil society representative, who laments that she was not sufficiently engaged in the decision process. The talks are to continue tomorrow.
22 January, 2008
REBEL ATTACK IN NORTH, SOLDIERS AND A PREFECT ABDUCTED.
MISNA
22 January 2008
The rebels of the Niger Movement for Justice (MNJ) yesterday attacked and after hours of fighting seized control of the town of Tanout, in the Zinder region 950km north-west of the capital Niamey, said the rebels today on their internet site. The statement also specifies that seven soldiers were killed and ten captured, including a high-ranking officer, in the attack – confirmed also by government sources. The rebel losses are unknown. The MNJ rebels also abducted the prefect of the town, accused of “excessive zeal in carrying out his functions (…) and encouraging an informant policy against civilians suspected of belonging to the MNJ”. Since last February, when the rebel group began its battle against the government, some fifty soldiers have been killed and around thirty abducted; the prefect is the first civilian to be taken prisoner. The Movement, made up by a majority of Tuareg from the north, demands that at least 50% of proceeds from uranium mining and other resources (including oil) go toward development in the region and compensation for the inhabitants forced from the land polluted by industrial processes.
22 January 2008
The rebels of the Niger Movement for Justice (MNJ) yesterday attacked and after hours of fighting seized control of the town of Tanout, in the Zinder region 950km north-west of the capital Niamey, said the rebels today on their internet site. The statement also specifies that seven soldiers were killed and ten captured, including a high-ranking officer, in the attack – confirmed also by government sources. The rebel losses are unknown. The MNJ rebels also abducted the prefect of the town, accused of “excessive zeal in carrying out his functions (…) and encouraging an informant policy against civilians suspected of belonging to the MNJ”. Since last February, when the rebel group began its battle against the government, some fifty soldiers have been killed and around thirty abducted; the prefect is the first civilian to be taken prisoner. The Movement, made up by a majority of Tuareg from the north, demands that at least 50% of proceeds from uranium mining and other resources (including oil) go toward development in the region and compensation for the inhabitants forced from the land polluted by industrial processes.
ELECTORAL CRISIS: KOFI ANNAN ATTENDED, TENSION HIGH.
MISNA
22 January 2008
Kenyan police fired teargas this morning to disperse scores of supporters who took to the streets of central Nairobi to back President Mwai Kibaki, whose re-election is contested by the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Security forces, which since the announcement of results of the December 27 elections banned all public demonstrations, intervened to block a small rally of Kibaki supporters who were chanting “lead on”. Focus in Nairobi is however turned on the arrival of African Union (AU) mediators headed by the former UN secretary general Kofi Annan, who will attempt to bring to the same table President Kibaki and ODM leader Raila Odinga, who claims victory in last month’s presidential vote.
Specific proposals will be placed on the table for power sharing and modifications to the Constitution and electoral commission before returning to the polls. The two protagonists of the political deadlock that in the past weeks brought Kenya to its knees will however have to agree to abandon their rigid preconditions. Meanwhile, the local press reports that at least 14 people were killed in the past 24 hours of violence in the nation and only in part linked to the political crisis. Five people were killed in an attack by armed youths in Endebess, in the Kwanza area, another six in Molo and Kuresoi, two in Huruma (Nairobi) and one in Kipkelion, in attacks conducted since the weekend around the Trappist monastery. The AU Peace and Security Council today “strongly deplored the loss of lives, condemned the gross violations of human rights” that occurred in the past weeks in Kenya and called for an in-depth investigation.
22 January 2008
Kenyan police fired teargas this morning to disperse scores of supporters who took to the streets of central Nairobi to back President Mwai Kibaki, whose re-election is contested by the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Security forces, which since the announcement of results of the December 27 elections banned all public demonstrations, intervened to block a small rally of Kibaki supporters who were chanting “lead on”. Focus in Nairobi is however turned on the arrival of African Union (AU) mediators headed by the former UN secretary general Kofi Annan, who will attempt to bring to the same table President Kibaki and ODM leader Raila Odinga, who claims victory in last month’s presidential vote.
Specific proposals will be placed on the table for power sharing and modifications to the Constitution and electoral commission before returning to the polls. The two protagonists of the political deadlock that in the past weeks brought Kenya to its knees will however have to agree to abandon their rigid preconditions. Meanwhile, the local press reports that at least 14 people were killed in the past 24 hours of violence in the nation and only in part linked to the political crisis. Five people were killed in an attack by armed youths in Endebess, in the Kwanza area, another six in Molo and Kuresoi, two in Huruma (Nairobi) and one in Kipkelion, in attacks conducted since the weekend around the Trappist monastery. The AU Peace and Security Council today “strongly deplored the loss of lives, condemned the gross violations of human rights” that occurred in the past weeks in Kenya and called for an in-depth investigation.
KENYA CRISIS: GOODS BLOCKED IN MOMBASA, SERIOUS ECONOMIC DAMAGES.
MISNA
22 January 2008
The Kenyan political crisis continues having serious repercussions on neighbouring nations, particularly Uganda, which is without sea access. Cargo containers en route to neighbouring countries or foreign markets in fact remain blocked at the Kenyan port of Mombasa: “Our trade partners are suffering from this situation, cargo attended in our national territory never arrived and some of our nationals were killed”, said Ugandan Trade Minister Gagawala Wambuzi over the weekend. The same problems are encountered in Ugandan export of coffee, tea and tobacco, while fuel prices in some areas of Uganda doubled or tripled. “We learned our lesson and the government decided to send personnel to see if it is possible to resort to the Tanzanian ports of Dar-es-Salaam and Tanga”, he added.
Based on official estimates, Kampala has so far lost a daily 1-billion Ugandan Shillings (around $600,000) in direct entries and the equivalent in export profits since the start of the crisis in Kenya. Warbuzi warned that if the tension persists, Kenya could also lose its markets in Rwanda, Burundi, eastern DR-Congo and South Sudan. Kampala’s independent Daily Monitor newspaper today also reported that the Kenya-based Rift Valley Railways Company has suspended shipment of goods and cargo to Uganda after furious protesters vandalised a kilometre-long section of the rail link at the Kibera slum, in the outskirts of Nairobi.
“It is true the railway has been destroyed and as a result, there are 18 train containers of cargo and fuel trapped between Mombasa seaport and Port Bell in Uganda”, said Roy Puffet, the railway company managing director, adding that it would take at least five days to repair the damage to the railway. Also cargo from Kenya to South Sudan is arriving in drops and local authorities are planning to intensify transport along the Nile from Khartoum.
22 January 2008
The Kenyan political crisis continues having serious repercussions on neighbouring nations, particularly Uganda, which is without sea access. Cargo containers en route to neighbouring countries or foreign markets in fact remain blocked at the Kenyan port of Mombasa: “Our trade partners are suffering from this situation, cargo attended in our national territory never arrived and some of our nationals were killed”, said Ugandan Trade Minister Gagawala Wambuzi over the weekend. The same problems are encountered in Ugandan export of coffee, tea and tobacco, while fuel prices in some areas of Uganda doubled or tripled. “We learned our lesson and the government decided to send personnel to see if it is possible to resort to the Tanzanian ports of Dar-es-Salaam and Tanga”, he added.
Based on official estimates, Kampala has so far lost a daily 1-billion Ugandan Shillings (around $600,000) in direct entries and the equivalent in export profits since the start of the crisis in Kenya. Warbuzi warned that if the tension persists, Kenya could also lose its markets in Rwanda, Burundi, eastern DR-Congo and South Sudan. Kampala’s independent Daily Monitor newspaper today also reported that the Kenya-based Rift Valley Railways Company has suspended shipment of goods and cargo to Uganda after furious protesters vandalised a kilometre-long section of the rail link at the Kibera slum, in the outskirts of Nairobi.
“It is true the railway has been destroyed and as a result, there are 18 train containers of cargo and fuel trapped between Mombasa seaport and Port Bell in Uganda”, said Roy Puffet, the railway company managing director, adding that it would take at least five days to repair the damage to the railway. Also cargo from Kenya to South Sudan is arriving in drops and local authorities are planning to intensify transport along the Nile from Khartoum.
GOMA CONFERENCE: DISARMAMENT DIFFICULT, BUT POSSIBLE TRUCE ON THE HORIZON.
MISNA
21 January 2008
The fate of former general Laurent Nkunda, leader of an inurgency in North Kivu, and the withdrawal of 15 armed groups in North and South Kivu remain contentious issues at the Goma peace conference, which was expected to close today. The conference has been extended because of the difficulty in achieving consensus, but the international press believes that an agreement could be announced and signed by tomorrow concerning a ceasefire. As for Nkunda, leader of the so called National Congress for the Defense of the people (CNDP), the issue of amnesty has been the most contentious point. Nkunda’s delegates have asked for amnesty against an international arrest warrant for war crimes; however, there appear to be many reservations with this proposition.
As for disarmament, the plan offered by the Committee of Wisemen has faced diverse reactions for the belligerents, who demand security assurances before putting down their weapons. Meanwhile, while efforts continue to bring a lasting peace in the region (at the border with Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi), more fighting was noted yesterday in Katwiguru, about 100 km northeast of Goma, in Rutshuru land. The fighting erupted after an episode of animal theft in the Tshondo sector. Local sources said that four civilians were killed in the village Libuso. Between Friday and Saturday Night, some 30 civilians were killed in various villages; the CNDP and PARECO (self defense force partly made up by former Mayi-Mayi) have accused each other of leading the attacks, which occurred near Nyamitaba and Kalonge.
21 January 2008
The fate of former general Laurent Nkunda, leader of an inurgency in North Kivu, and the withdrawal of 15 armed groups in North and South Kivu remain contentious issues at the Goma peace conference, which was expected to close today. The conference has been extended because of the difficulty in achieving consensus, but the international press believes that an agreement could be announced and signed by tomorrow concerning a ceasefire. As for Nkunda, leader of the so called National Congress for the Defense of the people (CNDP), the issue of amnesty has been the most contentious point. Nkunda’s delegates have asked for amnesty against an international arrest warrant for war crimes; however, there appear to be many reservations with this proposition.
As for disarmament, the plan offered by the Committee of Wisemen has faced diverse reactions for the belligerents, who demand security assurances before putting down their weapons. Meanwhile, while efforts continue to bring a lasting peace in the region (at the border with Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi), more fighting was noted yesterday in Katwiguru, about 100 km northeast of Goma, in Rutshuru land. The fighting erupted after an episode of animal theft in the Tshondo sector. Local sources said that four civilians were killed in the village Libuso. Between Friday and Saturday Night, some 30 civilians were killed in various villages; the CNDP and PARECO (self defense force partly made up by former Mayi-Mayi) have accused each other of leading the attacks, which occurred near Nyamitaba and Kalonge.
RPF REBELS FED FALSE INFORMATION, CLAIMS UN FORMER DEPUTY COMMANDER.
Hirondelle News Agency
18 January 2008
The United Nations military officials dispatched to Rwanda before the genocide were fed with misleading information by the rebels of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), claimed a Belgian officer testifying for the defence before the Arusha-based International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR).
Colonel Luc Marchal, who commanded the UN forces in Kigali sector, stated that the famous Jean Pierre, who had claimed of secret presence of hidden weapons in the Rwandan capital, was in liaison with the representatives of the RPF, including the liaison officer between the United Nations and the rebels.
He claimed that UN officers just on their arrival in Rwanda, received a purported letter from officers of the army denouncing a "Machiavelli plan" by then President Juvenal Habyarimana, which was going to lead to massacres and assassinations.
"This letter proved to be a forgery", he told the UN Court.
The revelations of "Jean Pierre", considered credible at the beginning, forced the then head of the United Nations forces in Rwanda, General Romeo Dallaire, to ask his headquarters in New York for the authorization to intervene in the issue but was refused.
"It was [RPF’s] constant program of feeding false propaganda to UNAMIR and the international public ", alleged the retired Belgian Officer, who was also Deputy Commander of UN Forces in Rwanda.
He cited several officers whom he knew belonged to the Rwandan army and who later joined the ranks of the RPF following their victory in 1994.
“Many books, articles as well as the project to kill ‘a thousand Tutsis in 20 minutes’ formed part of a concerted false propaganda plan”, explained the Belgian officer, who is testifying in favour of the former chief of staff of the Rwandan gendarmerie, General Augustin Ndindiliyimana, who is accused of genocide and crimes, alongside with three other officers in a joint trial, known as “Military II”.
The Belgian Officer continues to testify on Monday.
18 January 2008
The United Nations military officials dispatched to Rwanda before the genocide were fed with misleading information by the rebels of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), claimed a Belgian officer testifying for the defence before the Arusha-based International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR).
Colonel Luc Marchal, who commanded the UN forces in Kigali sector, stated that the famous Jean Pierre, who had claimed of secret presence of hidden weapons in the Rwandan capital, was in liaison with the representatives of the RPF, including the liaison officer between the United Nations and the rebels.
He claimed that UN officers just on their arrival in Rwanda, received a purported letter from officers of the army denouncing a "Machiavelli plan" by then President Juvenal Habyarimana, which was going to lead to massacres and assassinations.
"This letter proved to be a forgery", he told the UN Court.
The revelations of "Jean Pierre", considered credible at the beginning, forced the then head of the United Nations forces in Rwanda, General Romeo Dallaire, to ask his headquarters in New York for the authorization to intervene in the issue but was refused.
"It was [RPF’s] constant program of feeding false propaganda to UNAMIR and the international public ", alleged the retired Belgian Officer, who was also Deputy Commander of UN Forces in Rwanda.
He cited several officers whom he knew belonged to the Rwandan army and who later joined the ranks of the RPF following their victory in 1994.
“Many books, articles as well as the project to kill ‘a thousand Tutsis in 20 minutes’ formed part of a concerted false propaganda plan”, explained the Belgian officer, who is testifying in favour of the former chief of staff of the Rwandan gendarmerie, General Augustin Ndindiliyimana, who is accused of genocide and crimes, alongside with three other officers in a joint trial, known as “Military II”.
The Belgian Officer continues to testify on Monday.
GACACA JUDGE CAUGHT BRIBING A WITNESS.
Hirondelle News Agency
21 January 2008
Mr Faustin Rutayisire, 35, a judge in traditional Gacaca court of the Karama sector, was caught last Wednesday allegedly bribing a prosecution witness, reports Hirondelle News Agency.
Police of the Runda sector nabbed the judge bribing Mr Nsengumuremyi Isaie, a witness in his father’s murder case, with free booze and offering him 20 000 Rwandan Francs (37 USD).
The latter, witness-victim, was to testify before the Runda Sector appellate court against Mr Sinasebeje Vianney, who has been sentenced in first instance court to 27 years in prison.
The accused was convicted of killing Nsengumuremyi’s father during the 1994 genocide.
"He [Rutayisire] wanted to buy my silence during the appeal trial so that the judges could acquit the genocidaire. I cannot drink the blood of my father,” claimed Nsengumuremyi and alerted the police.
Mr Rutayisire has denied the allegations although he admitted that he offered the booze “as a gesture of request for forgiveness which according to the Rwandan customs must be done over a bottle of a drink ".
Police sources have hinted that corruption has been alleged in the past trials but it was difficult to catch the culprit in the act as it was conducted secretly.
Mr Rutayisire’s bribery allegations are being handled by the public ministry, which will investigate the issue and if proven, will be tried by appropriate courts.
The accused is an Inyangamugayo, a judge elected by the population according to their integrity.
Since the creation of the gacaca courts, almost 50 000 "Inyangamugayo" judges have been relieved of their functions, Mrs Domitille Mukantaganzwa, an official of the National Service of Gacaca Courts was recently reported to have said.
21 January 2008
Mr Faustin Rutayisire, 35, a judge in traditional Gacaca court of the Karama sector, was caught last Wednesday allegedly bribing a prosecution witness, reports Hirondelle News Agency.
Police of the Runda sector nabbed the judge bribing Mr Nsengumuremyi Isaie, a witness in his father’s murder case, with free booze and offering him 20 000 Rwandan Francs (37 USD).
The latter, witness-victim, was to testify before the Runda Sector appellate court against Mr Sinasebeje Vianney, who has been sentenced in first instance court to 27 years in prison.
The accused was convicted of killing Nsengumuremyi’s father during the 1994 genocide.
"He [Rutayisire] wanted to buy my silence during the appeal trial so that the judges could acquit the genocidaire. I cannot drink the blood of my father,” claimed Nsengumuremyi and alerted the police.
Mr Rutayisire has denied the allegations although he admitted that he offered the booze “as a gesture of request for forgiveness which according to the Rwandan customs must be done over a bottle of a drink ".
Police sources have hinted that corruption has been alleged in the past trials but it was difficult to catch the culprit in the act as it was conducted secretly.
Mr Rutayisire’s bribery allegations are being handled by the public ministry, which will investigate the issue and if proven, will be tried by appropriate courts.
The accused is an Inyangamugayo, a judge elected by the population according to their integrity.
Since the creation of the gacaca courts, almost 50 000 "Inyangamugayo" judges have been relieved of their functions, Mrs Domitille Mukantaganzwa, an official of the National Service of Gacaca Courts was recently reported to have said.
UN APPROVES 267 MILLION DOLLARS ICTR BUDGET.
Hirondelle News Agency
17 January 2008
The General Assembly of the United Nations has allocated a budget of 267, 356, 200 million dollars (approximately 145 billion Rwandan francs) to the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) for the 2008/2009 period.
This budget constitutes 6,4% of the total budget of the United Nations for the two years to come and represents only for 2008, approximately 12% of the Rwandan national budget (607,5 billion RWF).
The document which is availed in the organisation’s website, stipulates that the manpower of the court will be maintained for 2008, but that in 2009, 339 positions (approximately 30%) will be phased out.
Basing itself on reports presented by the tribunal, the committee estimates that the first instance trials "should be completed by the latest, at the end of 2008 or in mid-2009".
The Security Council, in a resolution adopted in 2003, has scheduled for 2008 the end of the first instance trials and 2010 for the appeal cases.
In order to speed up trials and minimise resources, the Prosecutor Hassan
Jallow has changed tactics by eliminating unnecessary counts of the accused persons and simplified the indictments.
The Prosecutor hopes to be able to decide in the near future on the cases dealing with the allegations against the members of the Rwandan Patriotic Army.
If these decisions result in indictments, there will be other cases to try in Arusha and requirement of additional resources.
The prosecutor also plans to draw up three new indictments "for falsification of evidence and contempt of the tribunal pursuant to the decision rendered in 2005 by the appeals chamber in the case of Jean de Dieu Kamuhanda, former Rwanda Minister for Culture and Education who has sentenced to imprisonment for remainder of his life.
The trials should take place in 2008.
The prosecutor also notes that among the fugitives, six alleged key master minds of the 1994 genocide should be tried in Arusha. These are: Felicien Kabuga, Protais Mpiranya, Augustin Bizimana, Augustin Ngirabatware (arrested 5 months ago in Germany NDLR), Idelphonse Nizeyimana, and Callixte Nzabonimana.
However, he adds that "if these fugitives are still not apprehended by the end of 2008, the Office of the Prosecutor will ask for the transfer of cases to national courts".
The biennial budget plans for trimming of the prosecution investigation team from 12 to 5 people over the two years, however banking on the number of arrests.
Concerning the follow-up of the recommendations made by the Audit committee, at the end of December 2005, the tribunal notes that the financial status of the defendants made no progress over and member states have not offered required assistance.
The tribunal again has called upon the voluntary contributions of the states.
For 2006/2007, more than 11 million dollars had been collected by the tribunal. Belgium and the Netherlands headed the list of donors.
Invariably, during the debates at the Security Council, states – led by Russia, which has a veto power at the United Nations --are opposed to any extension of the mandate of the two tribunals (ICTR and ICTY)..
If necessary, that beyond the expiry, the tribunals rely on voluntary contributions.
The administrative and budgetary committee of the organization quantified at 1.1 billion dollars the cost of the ICTR since its creation in November 1994.
17 January 2008
The General Assembly of the United Nations has allocated a budget of 267, 356, 200 million dollars (approximately 145 billion Rwandan francs) to the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) for the 2008/2009 period.
This budget constitutes 6,4% of the total budget of the United Nations for the two years to come and represents only for 2008, approximately 12% of the Rwandan national budget (607,5 billion RWF).
The document which is availed in the organisation’s website, stipulates that the manpower of the court will be maintained for 2008, but that in 2009, 339 positions (approximately 30%) will be phased out.
Basing itself on reports presented by the tribunal, the committee estimates that the first instance trials "should be completed by the latest, at the end of 2008 or in mid-2009".
The Security Council, in a resolution adopted in 2003, has scheduled for 2008 the end of the first instance trials and 2010 for the appeal cases.
In order to speed up trials and minimise resources, the Prosecutor Hassan
Jallow has changed tactics by eliminating unnecessary counts of the accused persons and simplified the indictments.
The Prosecutor hopes to be able to decide in the near future on the cases dealing with the allegations against the members of the Rwandan Patriotic Army.
If these decisions result in indictments, there will be other cases to try in Arusha and requirement of additional resources.
The prosecutor also plans to draw up three new indictments "for falsification of evidence and contempt of the tribunal pursuant to the decision rendered in 2005 by the appeals chamber in the case of Jean de Dieu Kamuhanda, former Rwanda Minister for Culture and Education who has sentenced to imprisonment for remainder of his life.
The trials should take place in 2008.
The prosecutor also notes that among the fugitives, six alleged key master minds of the 1994 genocide should be tried in Arusha. These are: Felicien Kabuga, Protais Mpiranya, Augustin Bizimana, Augustin Ngirabatware (arrested 5 months ago in Germany NDLR), Idelphonse Nizeyimana, and Callixte Nzabonimana.
However, he adds that "if these fugitives are still not apprehended by the end of 2008, the Office of the Prosecutor will ask for the transfer of cases to national courts".
The biennial budget plans for trimming of the prosecution investigation team from 12 to 5 people over the two years, however banking on the number of arrests.
Concerning the follow-up of the recommendations made by the Audit committee, at the end of December 2005, the tribunal notes that the financial status of the defendants made no progress over and member states have not offered required assistance.
The tribunal again has called upon the voluntary contributions of the states.
For 2006/2007, more than 11 million dollars had been collected by the tribunal. Belgium and the Netherlands headed the list of donors.
Invariably, during the debates at the Security Council, states – led by Russia, which has a veto power at the United Nations --are opposed to any extension of the mandate of the two tribunals (ICTR and ICTY)..
If necessary, that beyond the expiry, the tribunals rely on voluntary contributions.
The administrative and budgetary committee of the organization quantified at 1.1 billion dollars the cost of the ICTR since its creation in November 1994.
21 January, 2008
Former Labour Party PM Tony Blair is new advisor to Rwanda
The New Times
By Felly Kimenyi
21 January 2008
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has taken up a role as an advisor to Rwanda. The development has been confirmed by Dr David Himbara, the head of the Strategy and Policy unit in the Office of the President, who also told this reporter how it came about.
“It started with a meeting he held with the President (Paul Kagame) where he express his interest in offering pro bono services as advisor to Rwanda. Shortly after that, I met with him to comprehensively brief him on the situation in our country,” Himbara said yesterday. A team from Blair’s office was recently in the country for one week to assess the challenges on the ground. This will be followed soon by the former premier’s own visit.
“He (Blair) is expected to come to Rwanda some time next month and his visit will mark the kick-off of his involvement,” said Himbara. According to Himbara, Blair’s attachment to Rwanda dates back to the time when he was still head of the British government.
At the time he and his government played a significant role in Rwanda’s reconstruction. “For instance, it was during his tenure that the British Government initiated the direct budget support to Rwanda and they were the first country to do so…he has always believed in our government’s effort and ways to identify what is best for our people.
“Now it is another chance for him to put his belief in concrete practice. But it is a chance for our government as well to work with a figure like Blair whose influence is global and has good knowledge about Rwanda,” Himbara added.
He said that Blair will be very useful in such areas like policy making and innovation for better results.“The involvement will not be one way…there are some issues on which he will seek the President’s advice, given the fact that ours is a developing country,” he observed.
Blair, who is a prospective bidder for the presidency of the European Union come next January, stepped down before the end of his term as prime minister in July last year for Gordon Brown to take over.
Recently JP Morgan, a giant US bank announced it had secured the former Labour Party leader’s services as senior adviser, making it his first private sector job since leaving politics.
By Felly Kimenyi
21 January 2008
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has taken up a role as an advisor to Rwanda. The development has been confirmed by Dr David Himbara, the head of the Strategy and Policy unit in the Office of the President, who also told this reporter how it came about.
“It started with a meeting he held with the President (Paul Kagame) where he express his interest in offering pro bono services as advisor to Rwanda. Shortly after that, I met with him to comprehensively brief him on the situation in our country,” Himbara said yesterday. A team from Blair’s office was recently in the country for one week to assess the challenges on the ground. This will be followed soon by the former premier’s own visit.
“He (Blair) is expected to come to Rwanda some time next month and his visit will mark the kick-off of his involvement,” said Himbara. According to Himbara, Blair’s attachment to Rwanda dates back to the time when he was still head of the British government.
At the time he and his government played a significant role in Rwanda’s reconstruction. “For instance, it was during his tenure that the British Government initiated the direct budget support to Rwanda and they were the first country to do so…he has always believed in our government’s effort and ways to identify what is best for our people.
“Now it is another chance for him to put his belief in concrete practice. But it is a chance for our government as well to work with a figure like Blair whose influence is global and has good knowledge about Rwanda,” Himbara added.
He said that Blair will be very useful in such areas like policy making and innovation for better results.“The involvement will not be one way…there are some issues on which he will seek the President’s advice, given the fact that ours is a developing country,” he observed.
Blair, who is a prospective bidder for the presidency of the European Union come next January, stepped down before the end of his term as prime minister in July last year for Gordon Brown to take over.
Recently JP Morgan, a giant US bank announced it had secured the former Labour Party leader’s services as senior adviser, making it his first private sector job since leaving politics.
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