Former DRC President Kabila Sentenced to Death in Absentia for War Crimes
Former President Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been sentenced to death in absentia. The verdict, handed down by a court in Kinshasa, follows a trial that began in July. Kabila, who has been living in exile, including in South Africa, for about two years, was found guilty of high treason and war crimes.
The trial centred around Kabila's alleged role in the conflict with the M23 militia in the eastern provinces of North and South Kivu. He was accused of being the 'intellectual author' of the M23 offensive and was found guilty of glorifying crimes, conspiracy, and planning a government coup. After leaving office, Kabila had criticized his successor Felix Tshisekedi's policy in the east, further straining their relationship.
The court ordered Kabila's immediate arrest, but he remains at large. His immunity was lifted by the government, paving the way for the trial. Kabila was also sentenced to pay damages of $33 billion (around €28 billion) to the state and the affected provinces.
The sentencing of Joseph Kabila marks a significant development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's ongoing efforts to address its past conflicts. The verdict, however, raises questions about the practical implications, given Kabila's current location and the challenges of enforcing the sentence.
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