Kampala, Uganda – A military court in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 13 soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) to death for fleeing from enemy combat during recent clashes with M23 rebels. The verdict was delivered on January 2, 2025, following charges that included fleeing from the enemy, violation of military instructions, desertion, and attempted rape.
The court’s decision comes in the wake of significant territorial losses for FARDC in North Kivu province, where M23 rebels have gained control over key areas. Reports indicated that during the clashes, some FARDC soldiers abandoned their posts even before the arrival of M23 forces, leading to accusations of cowardice and looting amid the chaos.
The military tribunal, presided over by Byamungu Munanira, ruled that the actions of these soldiers not only endangered their comrades but also contributed to widespread pillaging during a state of siege. In addition to the death sentences, four other soldiers received prison terms ranging from one to ten years for various offenses.
This case highlights ongoing issues within the Congolese military as it grapples with internal discipline and external threats from rebel groups. The M23 conflict has persisted since March 2022, with accusations against Rwanda for supporting the rebels—a claim both Rwanda and M23 deny.