Congo:13 soldiers sentenced to death, four to prison for surrendering to rebels

A military tribunal in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 13 soldiers to death and four others to prison for their involvement in acts of desertion, murder, and looting. The court was convened in response to allegations of misconduct during ongoing military operations in the volatile region of North Kivu.

The trial, which involved 24 military personnel, resulted in the acquittal of six individuals due to insufficient evidence, while one case was postponed. The remaining soldiers faced severe charges. Thirteen were sentenced to death for abandoning their posts on the frontlines, leaving their positions vulnerable to insurgent forces. Meanwhile, four soldiers received prison sentences ranging from two to ten years for their involvement in violent acts, including murder and looting, during military operations against rebel groups.

The sentences come in the context of the ongoing conflict in North Kivu, where the Congolese military is engaged in operations against several armed rebel groups. Some of these groups are fighting for an independent state with alleged external backing, further complicating the region’s security situation.

In one notable incident, some soldiers reportedly deserted their positions, allowing the rebel forces to advance and causing substantial damage to the country’s security efforts. This desertion, combined with the violent actions of some military personnel, led to the trial and subsequent verdicts.

The military prosecutor, Kabala Kabindi, clarified that the purpose of these proceedings was to reinforce discipline and restore the confidence of the Congolese people in their armed forces. The trial sought to send a message that such behavior would not be tolerated, with the military being held accountable for its actions.

All of the convicted soldiers have maintained their innocence throughout the trial and have indicated plans to appeal the court’s decisions. Despite their protestations, the military tribunal’s decision aims to underline the government’s commitment to maintaining order and accountability within its ranks.

This ruling follows a similar case in May 2024, when 22 soldiers were sentenced to death for desertion and cowardice during clashes with the M23 rebel group in the same region. These ongoing military tribunals highlight the government’s resolve to take stern action against any form of insubordination or misconduct.