SECRETARY-GENERAL, EMPHASIZING IMPORTANCE OF DUE PROCESS, EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER EXECUTIONS ANNOUNCED BY RWANDAN GOVERNMENT
Press Release
SG/SM/6536
AFR/52
SECRETARY-GENERAL, EMPHASIZING IMPORTANCE OF DUE PROCESS, EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER EXECUTIONS ANNOUNCED BY RWANDAN GOVERNMENT
19980423 The following statement, concerning the announced intention of the Government of Rwanda to execute more than 20 persons found guilty of genocide in that country, was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:The Secretary-General reiterates in the strongest possible terms his condemnation of the genocide that took place in Rwanda in 1994. In the aftermath of the genocide, it is essential that justice be done and that the crime of genocide not be committed with impunity At the same time, the Secretary-General is concerned that justice be done in accordance with due process and in a way that will advance the process of healing that is needed to ensure lasting peace in Rwanda. To that end, he has written today to the President of Rwanda to convey these concerns regarding the executions announced by the Government.
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