DR Congo Seeks Death Penalty for Ex-President Joseph Kabila in Treason Trial

KINSHASA, Congo — DR Congo’s public prosecutor on Friday called for the death penalty for former President Joseph Kabila, who is being tried in absentia on charges of treason, war crimes and supporting the M23 rebel group.

Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, assumed power at age 29 following the assassination of his father, then-President Laurent Kabila. His presidency was later marked by a controversial two-year delay in elections after the end of his term, sparking widespread unrest.

The government accuses Kabila of backing the Rwanda-supported M23 rebels, who in recent months have seized control of key cities in eastern Congo. His return from self-imposed exile in April — notably to Goma, a city now under rebel control — raised further concerns about alleged ties to the insurgency. His current whereabouts are unknown.

In court, Gen. Lucien René Likulia, representing the prosecution, also requested a 20-year sentence for allegedly condoning war crimes and 15 years for conspiracy. No additional details were provided on those charges.

Kabila's immunity as a senator for life was revoked in May. His allies denounced the trial as politically driven.

“This is a disgrace for the Republic,” said Ferdinand Kambere, a former minister under Kabila.

Security analyst Henry-Pacifique Mayala questioned the legitimacy of the case, calling it “a settling of scores” rather than a credible pursuit of justice. A verdict date has not yet been announced.

GAROWE ONLINE