After studying journalism in Romania, Niyitegeka became first a journalist and presenter with Radio Rwanda and subsequently a Member of Parliament, then executive in a textile company and businessman.

MDR advocated democracy, individual freedoms, the reunion of Rwandans regardless of ethnic considerations, and the end of violence.

[2] After the signing of the Arusha power-sharing protocols, in January 1993, Niyitegeka's garage and petrol station in Nyabugogo, Gatsyata, were pillaged during protests organised by the MRND.

Throughout his time as the Minister of Information, Niyitegeka committed numerous atrocities and was an active participator and leader in the Rwandan genocide until fleeing the country in July 1994.

He was finally arrested for his crimes in Nairobi, Kenya on February 9, 1999 and sent to the United Nations prison quarters in Arusha, Tanzania to await trial.