By Iftikhar Mashwani
Islamabad: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Tuesday described the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda as one of the darkest chapters in modern history, urging the international community to promote tolerance, justice, and peace to prevent such tragedies in the future.
He was speaking as chief guest at a commemorative event held in Islamabad by the High Commission of Rwanda on the 32nd anniversary of the 1994 genocide.
Addressing diplomats, lawmakers, and members of civil society, Gilani expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of Rwanda, noting that over a million innocent lives were lost within just 100 days, leaving behind devastated families and communities.
He paid tribute to Rwanda’s resilience and praised its remarkable journey of recovery, reconciliation, and national rebuilding, calling it a global example of transforming pain into unity and progress.
The Senate chairman also drew parallels with Pakistan’s own history, recalling the suffering during independence marked by violence and mass displacement. He said such shared experiences strengthen empathy and solidarity among nations that have endured tragedy.
Emphasizing the importance of remembrance, Gilani said it serves not only as mourning but also as a call to action. “Unchecked hatred can lead to unimaginable consequences, while unity and justice can pave the way for lasting peace,” he stated.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to human dignity and justice, he stressed that the rights of marginalized communities must remain central to the global agenda, warning that silence in the face of injustice amounts to complicity.
He called on the international community to strengthen institutions, promote inclusive governance, and foster education that nurtures tolerance and mutual respect, ensuring that the pledge of “Never Again” is upheld.
The event was attended by federal ministers, ambassadors, parliamentarians, and media representatives. Gilani thanked Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Fatou Hareiman, for organizing the ceremony and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the people of Rwanda.
