At the Coalface

Theo R. - Freedom + Forgiveness + Love = Life

August 17, 2022 Philippe Rose and Theo Episode 25
At the Coalface
Theo R. - Freedom + Forgiveness + Love = Life
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In this episode, I speak with Theo R. A few months ago, I learned about Theo from reading Michela Wrong’s book Do Not Disturb about Rwanda as part of DWN Bookshelf. Theo had been a member of the President's inner circle, from the time of the struggle when RPF sought to take control of the country and then later into government. Theo embarked on the Fletcher School’s GMAP degree around the time he decided to go into exile in 2005.  Our conversation covers Theo's life as a refugee and the ways it shaped him, his youthful days animated by powerful Marxist ideas, his joining RPF and being part of shaping the new Rwanda, and his gradual realisation that he no longer shared the values of its leadership, prompting a journey back into refugee life.

Recorded on 15 March 2022.

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My life within the story of a nation
Life in a refugee camp
My mother did 3 things that were instrumental
Schooling as a refugee
Countries guard certain professions jealously
Even in the darkest moments, when men commit evil
The euphoria of joining RPF
I hope you're joining the struggle
Meeting Paul
The inner circle
The voice of RPF
Developing a cold in my heart
The rise of the unchallengeable
The conditions that made Paul who he is
Cultivating a climate of fear
Falling out
48 Laws of Power
Moving beyond convictions
My message is you need to cast a long look
A nation is multiple narratives
Switching conviction is a life and death matter
Tina's equation