Title: “The repression of the demonstration in Goma: prison sentences required against the soldiers involved”
Introduction :
In a recent flagrant trial in Goma, six soldiers from the Republican Guard are being prosecuted for their involvement in the repression of a demonstration that took place on August 30. Against a backdrop of accusations against Monusco and the force of the East African community for their supposed failure in the region, this repression has cost the lives of many civilians. In this article, we will return to the progress of the trial and the sentences requested by the public prosecutor against the incriminated soldiers.
The public prosecutor’s indictment:
During the trial, the public prosecutor requested sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison against the six accused soldiers. The commander of the inter-army brigade of the Republican Guard in North Kivu, Colonel Mike Mikombé, is the target of a request for a death sentence, which would then be commuted to life in prison. Lieutenant Colonel Donatien Bawili and three second-class soldiers risk a sentence of 20 years in prison. The civil party, represented by Maître Julien Bisimwa, reacted favorably to these requisitions, affirming that they will ensure that the sentences are applied.
The civil party’s requests:
In addition to prison sentences, the civil party also demanded compensation for the victims’ families and pleaded for the release of civilians detained since the events of August 30. This position underlines the tragic consequences of repression and the importance of providing reparation to bereaved families.
Tensions between defense and prosecution:
Throughout the trial, defense lawyers raised the question of the responsibility of Lieutenant General Constant Ndima, who commanded military operations at the time. They requested his presence to clarify certain points. This request was rejected by the court, but it highlights the questions that persist about the chain of command during this repression.
Conclusion :
The flagrant trial of Republican Guard soldiers involved in the repression of a demonstration in Goma revealed the sentences requested by the public prosecutor, ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment. The civil party welcomed these requests and also pleaded for compensation for the victims’ families. Tensions between defense and prosecution also marked the trial, highlighting questions about the chain of command. The outcome of this trial will determine the responsibility of the soldiers involved in this tragedy and will mark a step in the search for justice for the victims.