World

Rwandan ex-doctor accused of genocide

Rwandan doctor Eugene Rwamucyo (L) and lawyers arrive at the Paris Assize Court. — AFP
 
Rwandan doctor Eugene Rwamucyo (L) and lawyers arrive at the Paris Assize Court. — AFP
PARIS: A former doctor went on trial in Paris on Tuesday accused of genocide in Rwanda, the latest suspect to face justice in France three decades after the massacre of the African country's Tutsi population by the Hutu majority. Eugene Rwamucyo, 65, is accused of aiding his country's then authorities to disseminate anti-Tutsi propaganda and of participating in mass murder in an attempt to destroy evidence of genocide.

The former doctor, who practised medicine in France and Belgium after leaving his country, has been charged with genocide, complicity in genocide, crimes against humanity, complicity in crimes against humanity and conspiring to prepare those crimes. If found guilty, he could face life in prison. The trial at the Paris court is due to last all month, up to October 29. Rwamucyo, who is not in custody, appeared in court accompanied by his lawyers without making any comment. Around 60 witnesses are expected to testify during the trial. — AFP