Congo's prosecutor demands death penalty for Joseph Kabila over war crimes

In Congo, the public prosecutor has sought the death penalty for former President Joseph Kabila as part of a treason trial that encompasses war crimes allegations. This trial, initiated in July, includes charges related to his association with the M23 rebel group, which has recently gained control of significant territories in eastern Congo. Kabila, who ruled from 2001 until 2019, had been in self-imposed exile since 2023. His trial follows the revocation of his presidential immunity in May and accusations from President Felix Tshisekedi about Kabila's support for the M23 rebels, a claim Kabila has denied. During the recent court proceedings, Gen. Lucien René Likulia, representing the prosecution, has not only proposed the death penalty but has also requested 20 years for condoning war crimes and an additional 15 years for conspiracy, although he did not provide further details regarding these accusations. Kabila's current whereabouts remain unknown, and the defense has described the prosecution as politically motivated. As the legal proceedings continue, there are growing concerns regarding the implications for political stability in Congo, particularly given Kabila's complex legacy and the ongoing tensions surrounding the rebel activity in the region.