Spokesman Report
ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani attended a solemn commemoration of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda as chief guest at a local hotel on Tuesday.
The event, organized by the High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in Islamabad, marked the 32nd anniversary of the 1994 genocide. It was attended by federal ministers, ambassadors, members of parliament, media representatives, and people from various walks of life.
Addressing the gathering, Gilani described the tragedy as one of the darkest chapters in modern human history, noting that in just 100 days, over a million innocent lives were brutally taken, leaving behind shattered families and scarred communities. He expressed profound grief and solidarity with the people of Rwanda.
He paid tribute to the resilience and courage of the Rwandan nation, commending its remarkable journey of transforming immense suffering into a powerful narrative of unity, reconciliation, and national rebuilding. He said Rwanda’s progress stands as a global example of healing and development.
The chairman said the memory of such atrocities resonates deeply with the people of Pakistan, recalling the country’s own painful experiences during independence, when countless lives were lost in communal violence and mass migrations. He added that these shared experiences strengthen bonds of empathy and solidarity among nations.
Gilani emphasized that remembrance is not only an act of mourning but also a call to action, warning that hatred, if left unchecked, can lead to devastating consequences. He stressed that unity, tolerance, and justice are essential for lasting peace.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace and human dignity, he said the rights of marginalized and oppressed communities must remain central to the global agenda, adding that silence in the face of injustice amounts to complicity.
He urged the international community to work collectively to strengthen institutions, promote inclusive governance, and foster a culture of tolerance and coexistence. He also highlighted the importance of education in nurturing empathy and mutual respect to ensure that the pledge of “Never Again” is upheld.
Gilani concluded by calling on all stakeholders to stand against hatred in all its forms and to uphold the dignity of every human being.
Later, the chairman thanked Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Fatou Hareiman, and reaffirmed his solidarity with her and the people of Rwanda.
