Charles Onana and his Publisher Convicted for Denial of the Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda

French-Cameroonian journalist Charles Onana and his publishing director Damien Serieyx have been convicted by the Paris Judicial Court for denying and minimizing the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. This historic ruling, issued on December 9 by the 17th Criminal Chamber, is the first conviction in France for Genocide denial and establishes a legal precedent to combat the falsification of historical facts surrounding the Genocide.

A Historic Decision

The court ruled that numerous passages from Onana’s 2019 book, Rwanda, the Truth About Operation Turquoise – When the Archives Speak, constituted denialism. Advocacy groups such as the League of Human Rights (LDH), the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), and Survie filed complaints against Onana, arguing that his work perpetuated false narratives that undermine the memory and dignity of Genocide victims.

Rejecting the defense’s claims that the book was a legitimate academic exploration, the court described the work as an “unbridled deployment of denialist ideology.” Defense witnesses, including five French military personnel, argued that Onana’s analysis was a sincere effort to understand the Genocide, but the court dismissed this as a distortion of historical truth.

The court sentenced Onana and his publisher to 120 daily fines of €70, totaling €8,400. Failure to pay within 120 days will result in a prison sentence of the same duration. A discount of up to €1,500 is offered for payments made within 30 days.

Key Reactions

Raphaël Doridant of Survie welcomed the decision, stating:

“This ruling demonstrates France’s firm stance against Genocide denial and revisionism. Onana’s writings insult the memory of victims and their families while undermining democratic debate.”

The ruling not only safeguards the memory of the Genocide victims but also strengthens the fight against denialist ideologies that perpetuate harm and hinder reconciliation efforts.

Implications for Accountability

This case highlights France’s evolving engagement with its historical role during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Onana’s book, which sought to minimize the Genocide and shift blame away from perpetrators, also attempted to absolve France of its controversial involvement during Operation Turquoise.

For organizations like FIDH and Ibuka France, this ruling represents a significant step in holding individuals accountable for undermining justice and reconciliation. It underscores the importance of protecting historical truth against distortion.

Appeal Announcement

Onana and Serieyx have announced their intention to appeal the verdict, signaling that the fight against denialist narratives is ongoing. However, the decision sends a clear message that denialism and historical distortion will not be tolerated.

This landmark ruling reinforces global efforts to honor the memory of Genocide victims and ensure justice for atrocities committed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

ND