A military tribunal in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 13 soldiers to death for offenses including murder, looting, and cowardice. Authorities described the move as part of efforts to restore discipline in the army following territorial losses caused by soldiers fleeing from battle.
The verdicts were delivered in Lubero, located in North Kivu province, where Congolese forces have been battling the Rwanda-backed M23 insurgency and other militia groups for nearly three years.
Local army spokesperson Mak Hazukay highlighted the challenges posed by soldiers abandoning their positions, which have allowed enemy forces to gain ground. “Some soldiers at the front lines have displayed significant indiscipline. This educational trial was necessary to address the situation,” he stated.
The trial involved 24 soldiers. While 13 received death sentences, four were handed prison terms ranging from 2 to 10 years, six were acquitted, and one case was deferred for further investigation.
Military prosecutor Kabala Kabundi emphasized that the hearings were aimed at rebuilding trust between the military and civilians. Despite their convictions, all defendants pleaded not guilty and have five days to appeal. A defense lawyer confirmed plans to challenge the rulings.