The political- and societal- transformation we seek to bring about in Rwanda can only be achieved if it is rooted in values that are both relevant to our people’s cultural heritage and reflect the aspirations of the majority of Rwandans at this time in history. These values, which shall be the foundation of our nation-rebuilding process, include human dignity and respect for human rights, equality and non-discrimination, mutual respect, democracy and the rule of law, integrity, empathy, solidarity, patriotism, humility, forgiveness, the right and responsibility of citizens to hold leaders accountable, accountable leadership, truth, justice, fairness.
The objectives of our cause are to:
- Stop and prevent violent conflict, including genocide and grave human rights violations that Rwanda’s people have periodically suffered and that have historically extended to citizens – men, women, and children – of neighboring states;
- Eradicate a culture of impunity for human rights violations;
- Create a conducive and progressive environment for inclusive social and economic development for all the people of Rwanda;
- Establish, nurture institutionalize democratic governance, particularly the rule of law in all its aspects;
- Establish independent, non-partisan, professional civil service and security institutions;
- Build a stable society that promotes and protects equality, embraces and celebrates diversity, and fosters inclusion in all aspects of national
- Promote individual, community and national reconciliation and healing;
- Promote harmonious relations, reconciliation and mutually- beneficial collaboration with the peoples and governments of neighboring states;
- Resolve the chronic problem of Rwandan refugees;
- Nurture a culture of tolerance to diverse ideas, freedom of discussion, and debate of critical issues
We promulgate this Proclamation in the earnest hope that it will encourage all
Rwandans of goodwill to overcome fear and mistrust, and dedicate themselves to
the pursuit of the ideals, values, principles and goals that this Proclamation
embodies. We view this Declaration as a living document that will evolve.
We believe this Proclamation must reflect the collective will of all Rwandans who,
like us, envision a peaceful, democratic, and free nation for themselves and for
posterity.
We, the founders of the Rwanda National Congress gathered at Bethesda,
Maryland, in the United States of America, representing a wide diversity of our
nation, do hereby adopt this Proclamation this 12th day of December, 2010.