[I forgot to mention that in Zimbabwe they had similar songs. They called them Chimurenga Songs. Blacks are very musical and artistic, so it is a peculiarity of their culture that music can be a powerful way of sending out a political message. A regular reader spotted this interesting item, showing that singing can play a role in real genocide.

Basically, what happened in Rwanda was the same as Zimbabwe in the early 1980’s (and which could happen in S.Africa). Basically, a minority, tried to go to war against a majority. The majority then mobilised a mass of militia to murder them. In Zimbabwe, it was the minority Matabele who were slaughtered. This is an example of how terrorism, and warfare can backfire badly on a minority. Jan]

This is particularly interesting in view of œThe Songs they Sing in South Africa, as mentioned in today™s AC Headlines. The question is who learnt here from whom, or is this general Black tradition valid everywhere in their societies? If it is and one must assume this, the writing is clear and vigilance becomes an even more important priority.

Rwanda singer on genocide charges

One of Rwanda’s most famous singers has gone on trial, accused of using his songs to incite violence during the 1994 genocide.

Simon Bikindi denies the charges and his lawyers say the charges violate his right to freedom of speech.

Meanwhile, a Rwandan lawyer wanted on genocide charges has resigned from the international tribunal set up to try the key figures behind the killings.

Some 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were slaughtered in just 100 days.

‘Hate media’
International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda chief prosecutor Hassan Bubacar Jallow said Mr Bikindi, 52, had “used his renowned talent for use in a criminal enterprise”.

“Bikindi’s music was used to mobilise the youth to join the Interahamwe militia, the killing machine of the [former ruling party] MRND,” he said.

He also added that the prosecution would investigate links between Mr Bikindi and the RTLM radio station, accused of broadcasting “hate media”.

Several RTLM officials have been convicted of charges related to the genocide.

Mr Bikindi is a former sports ministry official and founded Rwanda’s Irindiro Ballet.

He was arrested five years ago in the Netherlands.

Removed
Rwanda had threatened to cut off relations with the ICTR unless lawyer Callixte Gakwaya was sacked.

Mr Gakwaya is wanted by the Rwandan authorities but not by the, set up to try the masterminds of the genocide.

He was arrested earlier this month in Tanzania but released after pressure from the ICTR.

“He has resigned,” said court spokesman Everard O’Donnell.

“His name has been removed from the list of eligible lawyers for the defence council of the ICTR.”

Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/africa/5357062.stm

Published: 2006/09/18 16:14:43 GMT

(194)Â BBC MMVI

Replied:
Hi Karl,
The use of music to influence the thinking and actions of particularly the young is happening all over this world. I know it is certainly used here in the States, by blacks and whites alike. At times I am glad I can’t follow the words as they speak/sing them and then, I realize, kids don’t have that problem. They understand them all too well. It is frightening! In families where both parents work and time is a premium commodity, I dare say, a lot falls through the cracks. All forms of media are readily available and one can count on the fact that there are people making sure it reaches the target, our youth! It is all part of the plan.

Thank you for the article. I’m truly surprised that in Rwanda of all places there may be justice for some at least.
JoAn