LUBERO: In a decisive effort to restore military discipline, a Congolese tribunal sentenced 13 soldiers to death on Tuesday in Lubero, North Kivu province. The charges include murder, looting, and cowardice, as part of efforts to address territorial losses caused by soldiers abandoning their posts.
The trial unfolded amid Congo’s ongoing battle against the Rwanda-backed M23 insurgency and other militia violence in the eastern region. Local army spokesperson Mak Hazukay highlighted the urgency of the tribunal, stating, “We faced growing indiscipline at the front lines, which allowed the enemy to gain ground. This trial was necessary to reinforce discipline.”
Of the 24 soldiers on trial, four received prison sentences ranging from 2 to 10 years, while six were acquitted. One case remains under investigation. Military prosecutor Kabala Kabundi emphasized that the trial was intended to rebuild trust between the armed forces and local communities.
All 13 convicted soldiers have denied the charges and have five days to file appeals. A lawyer representing one of the defendants confirmed plans to challenge the sentences.
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