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    KIGALI, SEP 14 (ZENIT).- Rwandan Bishop Augustine Misago, accused of involvement in the spring 1994 genocide in his country, in which over half a million people died, rejected charges made at the opening of his trial in a Kigali court on Tuesday.

    "I reject all accusations made against me and accept none," 56-year old Bishop Misago said, who appeared this morning in court in the pink uniform worn by those accused of genocide; he had a crucifix hanging from his neck.

    Bishop Misago was arrested on April 14, after Rwandan President Pasteur Bizimungu publicly accused him of genocide. If the court declares him guilty, he could be condemned to death. During the preliminary hearing on August 23, the Bishop's lawyers appealed for conditional liberty, but it was denied by the court.

    Alfred Pognon, Bishop Misago's main lawyer, described the accusations made today in court as a politicized farce. He also said that the greater part of statements made by witnesses were false. ZE99091408

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