DR Congo sentences 66 soldiers to death for being 'cowards'

What the report says

A military court in Walikale, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has sentenced 66 soldiers to death after a trial involving 71 troops, according to local media reports cited by BBC Africa. The soldiers were convicted of cowardice, mutiny and refusing to obey orders. Four others were acquitted, and one soldier received a 10-year prison term.

The case stems from fighting in North Kivu province, where the men were reportedly arrested on 20 October after allegedly abandoning their positions and fleeing during clashes with fighters linked to the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a rebel coalition that includes M23. The army said the proceedings were meant to strengthen discipline as government forces continue operations against armed groups in the east.

BBC Africa noted that the Congolese military has long struggled with disorganisation and weak discipline, while soldiers have also complained about poor pay and limited equipment. The government has accused Rwanda of backing M23, an allegation Kigali and the rebels reject. The report also said DR Congo restored the death penalty in March 2024, and that rights groups criticised the move.

The latest sentences follow other recent death rulings against soldiers, underscoring the government’s effort to punish battlefield desertion as the conflict drags on.