The soldiers were accused of “fleeing in the face of the enemy” during recent clashes with M23 rebels in the eastern part of the country.
The soldiers, along with four civilian women (wives of soldiers), were tried on Wednesday in a one-day “flagrante delicto” (immediate appearance) trial before a mobile military court near the front line. The trial was held in the village of Alimbongo, North Kivu province.
The defendants faced charges that included “fleeing in the face of the enemy,” abandoning military supplies, disobeying orders, and theft, according to lawyer Jules Muvweko, who represented some of the soldiers.
Following the hearing, a harsh sentence was delivered. “25 soldiers, including two captains, were sentenced to death,” Muvweko said. He confirmed that the defense team intends to appeal the verdicts.
The remaining defendants, which included the four women, were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
This sentencing comes amidst renewed conflict with the M23 rebels, a group backed by Rwanda. Since late 2021, the M23 has captured territory in North Kivu, sparking concerns about potential infiltration within the Congolese military. These concerns have led to the arrest of several high-ranking officials on suspicion of collaborating with the rebels.
In March 2024, the DRC government lifted a two-decade moratorium on executions. This controversial decision, aimed primarily at military personnel accused of treason, has been heavily criticized by human rights organizations.
Earlier in May, eight Congolese soldiers were sentenced to death in Goma under similar accusations of cowardice during clashes with M23 rebels.
fss/abj/APA with AFP