Kabila Receives Death Penalty as DRC Court Links Him to Rebel Violence and War Crimes. Image credit: AFP file photo
(The Post News) – In a major legal decision, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s military court has handed down a death sentence to former Joseph president Kabila, who was tried in absentia. The charges against him include serious offenses such as war crimes, betrayal of the nation, and crimes against civilians.
Kabila and the M23 Rebel Group
The case is linked to claims that Kabila supported the M23 rebel group, which has been active in the troubled eastern regions of the country and is believed to have received backing from Rwanda. However, he has denied the accusations and criticized the legal process.
Moreover, the court found him responsible for acts including killings, abuse, and encouraging rebellion. He was not present in court and had no legal team to represent him.
His current location remains unknown. Alongside the sentence, he has been ordered to pay around $50 billion in compensation to the government and affected communities.
This ruling comes at a time when tensions in the country remain high. The DRC has faced long-standing conflict, especially in its mineral-rich eastern provinces.
Kabila, who once held power for nearly two decades, stepped down following widespread protests. Since 2023, he has mostly stayed in South Africa, though he made a public appearance in Goma earlier this year.
Kabila’s Declining Relationship with Tshisekedi
Furthermore, his relationship with current president Félix Tshisekedi has deteriorated over time. Accusations from Tshisekedi suggest that Kabila played a role in the recent rise of M23 fighters, who have taken control of key areas in North and South Kivu. As a result, the violence has led to thousands of deaths and forced many families to flee their homes.
Although a peace deal was signed in June with help from international mediators, both sides continue to accuse each other of breaking the agreement. Meanwhile, Rwanda, often mentioned in connection with M23, denies involvement and claims its actions are defensive.
In response to the court’s decision, the government has taken steps to freeze assets linked to Kabila’s political party and suspend its activities.
Please share your thoughts contact Thembeka via email: Journalist-thembeka@thepostnews.net
About the Author
