Assassination of Rwandan Greens Vice President Mr Andre Kagwa Rwisereka

The Global Greens express their deep shock and sadness at the murder of Rwandan Greens Vice President Mr Andre Kagwa Rwisereka on 13 July 2010. Mr Rwisereka was a prominent member of the Rwandan Greens who have been systematically blocked from registering as a political party. The assassination of André Kagwa Rwisereka is a tragic event that requires a strong reaction from the Rwandan institutions. The murderers of André Kagwa Rwisereka must be identified and brought to justice.

The murder of Mr Rwisereka’s is another sign of the growing repression of Rwandan opposition groups and media as President Paul Kagame prepares for elections in August.  This casts serious doubt on the government’s ability/willingness to hold elections that are free and fair.  The Global Greens call on the international community to react to the increasing violations of human rights and democratic rules in Rwanda.

The Global Greens call on the Commonwealth to act immediately to enforce its standards of human rights and democracy. Less than one year ago, in December 2009, Rwanda was admitted to the Commonwealth.  This was against the clear advice of the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI).  Rwanda is a test of the Commonwealth’s commitment to human rights and democracy.  The CHRI warned that Rwanda’s admission would send a clear signal that the commitment of Commonwealth to its values is shallow.  Unfortunately this warning went unheeded and the consequences are being felt in Rwanda.

They must also guarantee the safety of other opposition groups and individuals and their freedom to speak out against the regime.

The Global Greens call on Green Parties around the world to raise this incident with their governments and to request they take international action to ensure that members of Green and other opposition parties are able to safely pursue their democratic rights.

We send our deepest sympathy to Mr Rwisereka’s family and colleagues.

Global Greens, 15 July 2010