They also want compensation. After he became a Hutu, Mr Karamira rose swiftly to political and financial prominence. Buildings still registered in his name are scattered across Kigali. The relatives of those he murdered want the court to distribute the assets before he is shot. Mr Karamira and his lawyer are doing their best to delay the day.
Lawyers are rare in Rwanda.
Most were killed in the genocide, or participated and fled. Paul Kato Atita only arrived on Saturday. He complained to the judges that he had barely had time to look at the charges and witness statements. He wanted a 15 day adjournment. Mr Karamira added his voice to the plea.