Independence or Illusion? Rwanda’s Ongoing Struggle Against Elite Oppression

What constitutes national liberation? How do we define national independence? These inquiries demand more profound exploration beyond superficial responses. Liberation suggests a population shedding fear to reclaim its dignity, while independence denotes a nation genuinely governing for its citizens’ welfare. Rwanda's annual commemorative events—July 1st for liberation from Belgian rule in 1962, July 5th recognizing the 1973 coup, and July 4th marking the 1994 RPF victory—emphasize shifts in power rather than transformative societal changes. These observances celebrate authority transitions, yet neglect the enduring structures of domination. Political shifts have consistently occurred through violence rather than democratic consensus, with each regime rewriting history and reinforcing systems that consolidate their power at the expense of the populace. For Rwanda to forge a path toward authentic liberation and independence, it must dismantle the pillars of absolutism, fear, silence, and economic dependency. This transformation calls for a holistic approach promoting equitable prosperity, regional stewardship, and inclusive governance. Only then will Rwanda's future reflect genuine resistance to past injustices, ensuring national commemorations resonate with true meaning.