The recent kidnapping of a young seminarian in the Tshiamalale district of Lubumbashi has sparked a wave of indignation and emotion within the local community. This heinous act, perpetrated by soldiers, was unanimously condemned by the population and the ecclesiastical authorities of the region. Faced with this case, the Military Court quickly took matters into its own hands and initiated legal proceedings to shed light on this dark affair.
During the hearing last Friday, the courts rendered a final verdict: Colonel-Magistrate Ange-Félix Mwangala, of the 2nd Defense Zone, was dismissed from the army and sentenced to 20 years in prison for his involvement in the kidnapping of the seminarian. This strong decision demonstrates the authorities’ determination to fight against impunity and guarantee the safety of all citizens, regardless of their status.
In addition to his sentence of imprisonment, Colonel Mwangala was forced to pay compensation of 10,000 US dollars to the young man who was kidnapped and 20,000 dollars to the Archdiocese of Lubumbashi, in compensation for the damage suffered. This measure aims to repair, as much as possible, the harm caused to the victim and to the ecclesiastical institution.
Furthermore, two sergeants involved in this case were also heavily sentenced to 10 years in prison, while a warrant officer was acquitted for lack of sufficient evidence. This severity of military justice testifies to the firmness of the authorities in the face of such actions, which cannot be tolerated in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Beyond the conviction of the guilty, it is essential to underline the responsiveness of the local ecclesiastical authorities, who immediately took a stand to demand that justice be done. The Metropolitan Archbishop of Lubumbashi played a crucial role in this case by defending the rights of the victim and calling for the punishment of those responsible, in accordance with the rule of law.
This kidnapping case is also linked to a broader issue, namely the illegal occupation of ecclesiastical property by third parties without title deeds. The fight against this scourge is crucial to protect ecclesiastical heritage and ensure respect for property rules.
In conclusion, the case of the kidnapping of the seminarian in Lubumbashi has highlighted the need to strengthen the rule of law and fight against impunity. The conviction of the perpetrators by military justice is an important first step in this direction, but it remains necessary to remain vigilant and continue to defend the rights of the most vulnerable in our society.