Augustin Bizimana

Who is Augustin Bizimana?

Augustin Bizimana is a Rwandan politician. He is chiefly known for his alleged role in the Rwandan Genocide.

Born in Gituza commune, Byumba Province, Rwanda, of Hutu ethnicity, Bizimana held the position of Minister of Defence in the government of Juvénal Habyarimana formed on 18 July 1993.

After Habyarimana's assassination, Bizimana became the Minister of Defence in the interim government until mid-July 1994. Among his powers were control over the possession of weapons by the civilian population, and control over the Rwandan Armed Forces, the government's army.

Unlike other members of the former regime, Bizimana has not yet been detained, though a warrant against him has been issued by the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda.