DR Congo Sentences 25 Soldiers to Death for Desertion in Battle Against M23 Rebels

In a dramatic move, the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 25 soldiers to death for abandoning their posts during fierce battles against the notorious M23 rebels in the country’s conflict-ridden east. The military tribunal also convicted the soldiers of looting goods from a nearby village after their retreat, an army spokesman revealed.

The tribunal's decision comes on the heels of the government lifting a two-decade-long moratorium on the death penalty, citing a need to eliminate "traitors" from the military ranks. The harsh sentences, which include two captains, have sparked plans for an appeal by the soldiers' lawyer.

Four soldiers' wives, accused of receiving stolen goods, were acquitted. Meanwhile, one soldier received a 10-year prison sentence, and another was acquitted.

This sentencing follows a similar judgment in May, where eight soldiers were condemned to death for "desertion" and "cowardice" in the face of rebel forces. The M23 rebels have recently captured several strategic towns, including Kanyabayonga, intensifying the conflict.

The UN has expressed grave concern over the escalating situation in North Kivu, where over 150,000 civilians have fled in the past week, worsening the humanitarian crisis in a region already plagued by displacement. The province remains perilous for humanitarian workers, with two Tearfund aid workers recently killed in Butembo.

The DR Congo army, criticized for its lack of professionalism and discipline, struggles with poor pay and inadequate equipment. Despite support from UN and regional troops, they have failed to curb the violence perpetrated by the well-armed and disciplined M23 fighters.

The M23, active since 2012, claims to protect the Tutsi population in eastern DR Congo, which faces alleged persecution. Despite denials from Rwanda, UN experts and international powers accuse President Paul Kagame’s government of backing the rebel group.