Former Congo President Kabila Sentenced to Death in Absentia
Former President Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been sentenced to death in absentia. The ruling came after a trial for high treason, war crimes, and other charges. The sentence follows Kabila's visit to Goma in May 2023, which led to his party's suspension and immunity lift.
Kabila was accused of masterminding crimes committed by the rebel coalition Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), including the M23 militia. The militia, supported by Rwanda, has captured significant parts of North and South Kivu this year. The trial began in July and concluded recently.
The Supreme Military Court ordered Kabila's immediate arrest. He has been living in exile, with his whereabouts unknown since 2023. He was last seen briefly in Goma, controlled by the M23 militia, in May 2025. Before his exile, Kabila was accused of corruption by his successor, Felix Tshisekedi. Their relationship deteriorated in 2023 due to policy disagreements.
Kabila has been ordered to pay damages of $33 billion to the state and the eastern provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. His sentencing and the ongoing conflict in the eastern Congo highlight the ongoing political and security challenges in the country.
