An investigation into Frances alleged role in the genocide (folkemord) in Rwanda has started in the capital, Kigali, BBC Online reports Tuesday.
A panel of respected Rwandans is hearing claims that French soldiers stationed in Rwanda allowed or even encouraged the massacre of Tutsis. France has denied playing any role in the 100-day frenzy of killing that took place in 1994.
The panel is headed by former Justice Minister Jean de Dieu Mucyo and its hearings are being broadcast live on local radio. It is hearing from 25 survivors of the genocide, who claim to have witnessed French involvement.
The panel will determine whether or not to refer the allegations to the International Court of Justice in Hague. Its findings are expected within six months.
The Rwandan government has alleged that France trained and armed some of the Hutus who carried out the killing spree in which 800.000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus died.
French soldiers were deployed in parts of Rwanda in the final weeks of the genocide under a UN mandate to set up a protected zone.
