He made the remarks on April 13, 2026, during the national event held at the Rebero Genocide Memorial to close the National Mourning Week and honor politicians who were killed for opposing the genocide.

Kalinda emphasized that the genocide was not spontaneous, but rather the result of a long history of poor governance and ethnic-based policies dating back to colonial rule and successive post-independence governments. He urged today’s political leaders to reject any ideology that could lead the country back to such dark chapters.

“The Genocide against the Tutsi was the outcome of a long chain of bad leadership and divisive politics. We must ensure that such ideologies never take root again,” he noted.

He highlighted the importance of remembrance as a tool to preserve truth and counter genocide denial and distortion.

“Remembering is essential to uphold the truth of the Genocide against the Tutsi and to fight against denial and minimization, while preventing its recurrence anywhere.”

Kalinda also pointed to Rwanda’s progress over the past 32 years, attributing it to policies that prioritize unity, equality, and good governance, as enshrined in the country’s Constitution. He called on leaders to safeguard these gains and continue promoting national cohesion.

While acknowledging the end of the official mourning week, he stressed that the 100 days of remembrance under #Kwibuka32 continue, urging collective vigilance against genocide ideology and renewed efforts to educate younger generations about the country’s history.