The trial of alleged attackers involved in the May 19 coup attempt in Kinshasa is receiving unprecedented attention as it opens this Friday, June 7. Fifty-three individuals find themselves before the Kinshasa-Gombe garrison military court to answer for seven major offenses, the charges for which are brought by the public prosecutor. The introductory hearing aims to identify the defendants and inform them of the accusations against them, in particular attack, terrorism, illegal possession of weapons and munitions of war, attempted assassination, criminal conspiracy, murder and the financing of terrorism.
The story of this sad event begins in the early hours of Pentecost Sunday, when gunfire broke out in the commune of Gombe, where most of the institutions are located. The residence of the President of the National Assembly, Vital Kamerhe, is attacked by an armed group led by a certain Christian Malanga. Exchanges of fire occurred around the residence, causing injuries and deaths among the police officers in charge of Kamerhe’s security and the attackers.
Military reinforcements are dispatched to neutralize the attackers holed up in the rotunda of the Palais de la Nation. The leader of this group was finally brought under control, according to information from the spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
After the attack, the Republican Guard managed to arrest a group of attackers wearing military uniforms and flags of the former Republic of Zaire. Through videos shared on social networks, these individuals claim their desire to “change things in the management of the Republic”.
The army announces having foiled a “coup attempt” targeting the Palais de la Nation, with a death toll among the attackers and those arrested. The accused, as well as the soldiers suspected of having committed extrajudicial executions during these events, will face their judges to face justice.
Beyond the brutal facts reported, this trial is of crucial importance for political stability and the rule of law in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It highlights security and democracy issues in a context marked by political and social tensions. The transparency and impartiality of justice in this case will be decisive not only in shedding light on the events of May 19, but also in reaffirming the country’s commitment to the rule of law and democracy.
Hoping that the truth comes to light and that justice is done fairly, this trial is a key moment in the recent history of the DRC, calling for deep reflection on the challenges and aspirations of the people Congolese people for a peaceful and prosperous future.