Murder of the followers of Wazalendo: the indictment of the public prosecutor and the sentences required against the soldiers prosecuted
In a case that shook the country, the public prosecutor made its submissions last Friday before the North Kivu Military Court concerning the murder of Wazalendo’s followers. Six soldiers are currently being prosecuted in this case, and the required sentences range from 10 years to life.
Colonel Mike Mikombe, considered the main accused, risks a life sentence as well as his dismissal from the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). The charges against him include murder, destruction of war material and incitement of soldiers to commit acts contrary to the law.
Although Colonel Mikombe did not directly shoot the suspected Wazalendo followers, the prosecution believes that he is nonetheless criminally responsible for these actions. Referring to the case law of national and international courts and tribunals, the senior auditor argued in favor of this criminal liability.
Concerning the four second class soldiers also prosecuted, three of them risk a sentence of 20 years in prison, while the fourth, Kabamba wa Kabamba, is likely to receive 10 years of detention.
In the case of Lieutenant-Colonel Donatien Bawili, the body of the law requested a sentence of 10 years with admission of mitigating circumstances for the offense of non-denunciation of persons liable to military jurisdiction.
The defense, for its part, argued in favor of the acquittal of Colonel Mikombe and Lieutenant-Colonel Donatien Bawili. The court’s ruling is expected next week.
This case demonstrates the importance of justice and accountability within the armed forces. It also raises questions about the protection of human rights and the fight against impunity.
It is essential that such acts of violence are adjudicated rigorously in order to ensure justice for the victims and prevent such incidents in the future. Civil society and human rights defenders will continue to press for justice in this case.
The Fatshimétrie editorial team will closely monitor the progress of this trial and keep its readers informed of future developments. It is crucial that the truth comes out and that those responsible for these inhumane acts are duly punished.