On 30 October 1993, the Rwanda Armed Forces (FAR) established a civilian “self-defense force” aimed at supporting the military in securing the country. This move was part of broader efforts by the government to strengthen its power and create a more organized force to combat perceived threats, especially from the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and other opposition groups.
Key Points of the Creation of the Self-Defense Force:
- Context:
- By 1993, Rwanda was in the midst of a tense civil war between the government forces (mainly the FAR) and the RPF, which was composed largely of Tutsi exiles who had been living in Uganda.
- The signing of the Arusha Peace Accords in August 1993 had paved the way for a transitional government and a power-sharing agreement, but violence and tensions remained high.
- The creation of the self-defense force was in response to both the military pressures from the RPF and the concerns within the Hutu-majority government about the political future, as well as the potential for ethnic violence.
- Purpose of the Self-Defense Force:
- The self-defense force was intended to act as a militia to protect local communities, particularly from RPF incursions and attacks.
- It was to be composed of civilians who were recruited, trained, and armed by the Rwandan Armed Forces (FAR).
- The government promoted the idea of these self-defense forces as a necessary measure for protecting Hutu civilians and preventing a possible Tutsi uprising, following fears that the RPF might take over the country through armed conflict.
- Recruits and Training:
- The civilian recruits were drawn primarily from Hutu communities and were trained to defend their areas and fight against RPF forces. The government also emphasized the importance of local defense, particularly in areas perceived to be at risk from RPF operations.
- These militias were often composed of young men who were given weapons and trained in basic military tactics, enabling them to provide a militarized response to any perceived threats.
- Political and Social Impact:
- The creation of the self-defense force was a deeply political move, aimed at consolidating power for the Hutu-led government. It served to further entrench the ethnic division between Hutus and Tutsis and fueled the sense of an impending ethnic conflict.
- It also marked a step toward the militarization of Rwandan society, where the civilian population was encouraged to be armed and ready to defend against perceived threats.
- The Hutu extremists within the government and affiliated militias began to view this force as a tool not only for self-defense but also for launching attacks against Tutsi civilians and political opponents of the regime. This would eventually contribute to the buildup of violence that culminated in the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.
- Legacy and Consequences:
- The self-defense forces played a significant role in the 1994 genocide, as many of these militias turned against Tutsi civilians and became key perpetrators in the mass killings.
- In the early days of the genocide, these militias, often referred to as Interahamwe (meaning “those who work together”), were directly responsible for the murders of thousands of Tutsis.
- The government and its supporters saw the self-defense force as a necessary measure to prevent the RPF from gaining control, but it also contributed to a widespread culture of violence that would have devastating consequences for Rwanda in the years to come.
Conclusion:
The creation of the civilian “self-defense force” on 30 October 1993 by the Rwandan Armed Forces marked an important step in the escalation of political and ethnic tensions in Rwanda. Initially presented as a measure for protecting civilians, it soon became a tool for ethnic violence and played a critical role in the 1994 genocide. The establishment of these forces demonstrated the deepening militarization of Rwanda and foreshadowed the tragic events that would follow just months later.