DR Congo conflict: At least 66 Congolese soldiers sentenced to death for cowardice

At least 66 soldiers have been sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo for cowardice, mutiny and refusing to obey orders, local media report.

The sentences followed a trial of 71 soldiers before a military court in Walikale, in North Kivu province, in eastern DR Congo. Four soldiers were acquitted, while another was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The army said the trial was intended to improve discipline among troops as they battle armed groups in eastern DR Congo.

The region has endured decades of conflict, with fighting continuing between government forces and the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a rebel coalition that includes the M23 group.

The soldiers were reportedly arrested on 20 October in Walikale, where they were accused of abandoning their positions and fleeing during clashes with FRN fighters.

The Congolese army's campaign against armed groups, including the M23, has long been undermined by poor discipline and disorganisation within its ranks.

The government has repeatedly accused neighbouring Rwanda of supporting the M23, an allegation denied by both Kigali and the rebels despite overwhelming evidence.

The army has faced persistent criticism over its lack of professionalism and disciplined, while soldiers have complained of poor pay and inadequate equipment.

Last month, another 27 soldiers were sentenced to death on similar charges of cowardice after reportedly withdrawing from the frontline during clashes with rebels.

In March 2024, DR Congo lifted a 20-year moratorium on the death penalty, citing the need to remove "traitors" within the army.

The government said capital punishment would also apply to people involved in armed groups, insurrection, as well as committing treason and war crimes.

The decision to reinstate the death penalty was widely criticised by rights groups. However, no formal executions have been carried out since the moratorium was lifted.

Since the beginning of 2025, at least 507 soldiers have been convicted, including 381 death sentences, according to figures compiled by French broadcaster RFI.

In October 2025, former Congolese President Joseph Kabila was sentenced to death in absentia on charges including war crimes and treason. He denied the accusations, but did not appear in court to defend himself. He has since been named as the FRN's leader.

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