The trial of the former First Vice-President of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jean Marc Kabund, will resume on August 14 after a suspension of almost a year. This suspension was due to a motion brought by the defense to obtain the interpretation of the Constitutional Court on the unconstitutionality of the proceedings against Kabund.
During the last hearing, which took place on August 6, there was talk of investigating the merits of the case. No less than 12 charges are brought against Kabund, including in particular insulting Parliament, the Government and the Republic, as well as insulting the Head of State and spreading false rumors. These offenses were allegedly committed during a statement made by the former first vice president during a press conference in July 2022.
Since the start of the proceedings, Kabund has been detained in Makala Central Prison, despite an attempt by his lawyers to obtain his house arrest. According to his defenders and his political party, the Alliance for Loading (A.ch), Jean Marc Kabund is considered a “hostage” of the power in place.
It should also be noted that Kabund’s political party has been excluded from the list of 910 parties retained for the next elections, which means that it will not be able to participate in the electoral competition.
The August 14 hearing will mark the start of the pleadings in this case, where the Public Prosecutor will try to convince the court of the defendant’s guilt. The defense, for its part, will make every effort to put forward its arguments. We must therefore wait to see the outcome of this case.
In conclusion, the trial of Jean Marc Kabund will resume on August 14 after a suspension of one year. The charges against him are numerous, but his defense hopes to be able to put forward his arguments during the pleadings