A survivor identified as Nyirakariza has questioned why some people continue to deny the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi despite the atrocities being witnessed publicly by many people.

He made the remarks during a memorial event held on May 15, 2026, to honor former employees of IRST, now known as NIRDA, who were killed during the genocide.

Nyirakariza said he was only 17 years old during the genocide and spent weeks hiding in different places including forests, hospitals, and church compounds.

He recalled witnessing horrific scenes, including mothers and children being killed, prisoners massacred, and women subjected to sexual violence.

“These crimes happened openly. I don’t understand how anyone can say the genocide never happened,” he said.

Officials at the event called on Rwandans to continue fighting genocide ideology and promoting unity and reconciliation.