Fatshimetry
June 7, 2024 will remain engraved in the annals of the history of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as the trial of those involved in the failed coup of May 19, 2024 began. The Kinshasa garrison military court /Gombe was the scene of this particularly high-profile hearing, where no less than 51 of the 53 people cited appeared before the military court. The mobile hearing was held at the Ndolo military prison, recalling the seriousness of the accusations against the defendants.
Among the notable elements of this trial, it should be noted that two of the defendants, Christian Malanga and Aboubakar, were noted as having died on the day of the attack. This tragic reality led the public prosecutor and the court to request the termination of public action against them, a painful decision but necessary for the proper conduct of justice. This termination of public action means the end of legal proceedings against them, thus recognizing their tragic destiny during the events of May 19.
The charges against the 51 other defendants are extremely serious, ranging from terrorism to illegal possession of weapons of war, including attempted assassination, criminal conspiracy, murder, or again the financing of terrorism. Offenses which underline the violent and planned dimension of the attack of May 19, and which may be punishable by the death penalty under the lifting of the moratorium on capital punishment which occurred on March 13, 2024. A decision which sparked lively debates within Congolese society, divided between the search for justice and the fear of vilifying the fundamental rights of individuals.
This trial therefore promises to be a crucial moment for Congolese justice, called upon to shed light on the events of May 19 and to punish those responsible for this attack against the State. It also represents a test of the DRC’s ability to guarantee a fair and transparent trial, in compliance with international human rights standards. In a country plagued by numerous political and social tensions, holding this trial is of paramount importance to restore citizens’ confidence in the rule of law and democracy.
Ultimately, the trial of the failed coup d’état of May 19, 2024 testifies to the challenges facing the DRC in its quest for stability and justice. It invites deep reflection on the roots of violence and political instability, and recalls the urgent need to strengthen institutions and conflict prevention mechanisms. While awaiting the final verdict, all eyes are on the Kinshasa military court, called upon to render a fair and impartial decision, while respecting the rights of the victims and the democratic principles which underpin our society.