Title: Fight against sexual violence in the DRC: soldiers and a policeman prosecuted before the Bukavu Military Court
Introduction :
Important legal actions are underway in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the context of the fight against sexual violence. The Military Tribunal of Bukavu, in the province of South Kivu, opened a trial against two soldiers and a policeman, accused of rape. These cases highlight the need to prosecute the aggressors, whether they belong to the security forces or not, and to protect the victims.
I. Rape of a 3-year-old child in a Bukavu military camp
During the first hearing, the court accused one of the soldiers of having raped a child aged only 3, in a military camp in the city of Bukavu. This shocking case highlights the vulnerability of children to sexual abuse and the need to strengthen the protection of the youngest. The court called on human rights organizations to provide enhanced protection to this child and her family, who are currently living under threats.
II. Sexual abuse of a woman during voter registration
The second defendant is a policeman, prosecuted for having abused a 21-year-old woman during voter registration operations in Minova, in the territory of Kalehe. The alleged aggressor would have taken advantage of his position to summon the victim to his office, under the pretext of facilitating the obtaining of his electoral card. This case raises serious questions about trust and security in electoral processes, as well as the accountability of security forces.
III. Rape of a 15-year-old girl in Birava
The third defendant is a soldier, accused of raping a 15-year-old girl in Birava, in the territory of Kabare. The victim’s parents claim to have caught the assailant in the act. This case highlights the fact that sexual violence also affects adolescent girls, and that prevention and justice measures must be strengthened to combat this scourge.
Conclusion :
These trials before the Military Court of Bukavu highlight the sexual violence that persists in the DRC and recall the importance of the fight against this phenomenon. The prosecution of the aggressors, whether military, police or civilian, is essential to guarantee the safety and protection of the victims. It is necessary to strengthen awareness-raising, prevention and justice initiatives to put an end to this violence and allow victims to rebuild their lives