The Kinshasa/Gombe Military Court recently made an important decision by declaring that it was not seized of the cases of those acquitted at first instance in the case of the failed coup d’état and the attack on Vital Kamerhe’s residence. This highly publicized case was the subject of careful examination before the Congolese courts.
The defense of the defendants acquitted at first instance, grouped under the name of “Chez Momo Hotels,” raised a procedural argument arguing that the Public Prosecutor’s appeal was limited to the 37 convicted defendants, and not to them. Consequently, they asked the Kinshasa/Gombe Military Court to declare that it was not seized of the case. The Court followed this reasoning and rendered its decision accordingly.
The appeal trial began on October 10, 2024, but at the hearing, the 13 defendants acquitted at first instance did not appear. Their defect was noted by the Court. This complex case continues to generate interest and raise questions about justice and the judicial process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The case of the failed coup and the attack on Vital Kamerhe’s residence remains a hot topic, highlighting the political and judicial issues facing the country. The recent decision of the Kinshasa/Gombe Military Court only underlines the complexity of this case and the challenges that the various parties must face.
It is essential to closely follow the developments in this case and the decisions taken by the Congolese justice system, as they have repercussions not only at the national level, but also on the international scene. The political, social and judicial issues surrounding this case make it a major topic that deserves special attention from all observers of the Congolese scene.