Members of Parliament have called on religious leaders in Rwanda to actively encourage genocide perpetrators to publicly confess their crimes, just as they do for other sins, in a bid to foster healing and strengthen national reconciliation.
During a session with representatives of the Rwanda Interfaith Council (RIC), the Parliamentary Commission on National Unity, Human Rights, and the Fight Against Genocide questioned why churches and religious organizations often remain silent regarding the Genocide against the Tutsi, despite routinely urging believers to confess sins like theft or adultery.
Quoting Biblical James 5:16 — “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed” — MPs argued that confession plays a critical role in both spiritual redemption and societal healing.
Commission Vice Chairperson, MP Philbert Uwiringiyimana, urged faith institutions to help genocide perpetrators acknowledge their crimes before congregants, noting that this can be a powerful step toward truth, justice, and unity.
“Failure to address genocide-related crimes within faith communities leaves a moral and emotional gap, and risks perpetuating silence, denial, and intergenerational trauma,” he said.
MP Lydie Mushimiyimana added that while churches routinely impose spiritual discipline for various transgressions, they rarely take similar steps with genocide perpetrators — even after they complete prison terms.
Bishop Samuel Kayinamura, RIC Vice President and head of the Free Methodist Church in Rwanda, acknowledged the challenge.
While some perpetrators do confess within prison-based programs, many remain silent once reintegrated into society due to stigma and fear.
He noted that several churches have begun introducing reconciliation measures, including restrictions on leadership roles until genuine forgiveness and restoration are achieved.
Lawmakers concluded that faith-based spaces must not shy away from addressing genocide crimes, and that open confession could help close wounds and fortify Rwanda’s hard-earned peace. 
