DR Congo Sentences 66 Soldiers to Death for Cowardice, Mutiny

At least 66 soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have been sentenced to death for cowardice, mutiny and refusing to obey orders, following a military trial in the country's eastern region.

The soldiers were among 71 military personnel tried before a military court in Walikale, North Kivu province. Four were acquitted, while another received a 10-year prison sentence.

The Congolese army said the trial was aimed at strengthening discipline among troops fighting armed groups in the east of the country.

Soldiers Accused of Abandoning Frontline Positions

The soldiers were reportedly arrested on October 20 in Walikale after allegedly abandoning their positions and fleeing during clashes with fighters from the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a rebel coalition that includes the M23 group.

Military operations in eastern DR Congo have been affected by longstanding concerns over poor discipline and disorganisation within the army. Soldiers have also complained about inadequate pay and equipment.

The Congolese government has repeatedly accused neighbouring Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, an allegation denied by Kigali and the group.

More Soldiers Receive Death Sentences

The latest convictions come after another 27 soldiers were sentenced to death last month on similar charges of cowardice. They were reportedly accused of withdrawing from frontline positions during clashes with rebels.

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

DR Congo Reinstated Death Penalty in 2024

In March 2024, DR Congo lifted a 20-year moratorium on the death penalty, citing the need to eliminate what the government described as traitors within the military.

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

The decision attracted criticism from human rights organisations. However, no formal executions have been carried out since the moratorium was lifted.

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

BBC News