DRC Military Court Hands Down Death Sentences to 25 Soldiers
A brutal crackdown has shaken the Democratic Republic of Congo’s armed forces. On Wednesday, a military tribunal sentenced 25 soldiers to death for desertion and military crimes amid fierce clashes with M23 rebels. The Butembo military court ruled the men guilty of fleeing combat, disobeying orders, and misusing war munitions.
“I find them guilty and sentence each of them to death,” declared Colonel Kabeya Ya Hanu, leading the trial. The court, held near recent battle zones, was designed to send a shock message to discourage desertion within the army ranks.
31 Tried in One Day – Women Acquitted, One Soldier Jailed for Robbery
The tribunal heard 31 cases in just one day: 27 soldiers and four civilian women, who were identified as their wives, according to defence lawyer Jules Muvweko. All four women were acquitted, while one soldier received a 10-year jail term for robbery. The fate of one soldier remains undisclosed.
Death Penalty Back Amid Rising Rebel Threats
This savage ruling follows a similar May judgement where eight soldiers, including five officers, were sentenced to death in Goma for “cowardice” and desertion. The DRC had an official moratorium on the death penalty since 2003, but the government recently lifted it amid escalating conflict.
Human rights activists like Moise Hangi warn the harsh sentences could backfire. “Many military personnel risk becoming victims of these decisions instead of strengthening security,” he said. “Such measures will weaken our forces further and spread fear along the front lines.”
M23 Rebels Press Gains as Army Morale Collapses
The rebel M23 group, alleged to be backed by Rwanda (a claim Kigali denies), has seized key towns in North Kivu, including the strategic gateway of Kanyabayonga. This opens pathways to major commercial hubs Butembo and Beni.
Reports indicate widespread desertions and low combat engagement by Congolese troops. “Many units have less than half their fighting force due to desertions and casualties,” noted Jason Stearns, ex-UN investigator and head of the Congo Research Group at New York University. “Accountability and morale are at rock bottom.”
The DRC army’s recent death sentences highlight a desperate effort to clamp down on disorder. But critics fear the brutal approach may deepen divisions inside the military, making it more vulnerable to the advancing rebel threat.
