About 25 soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), attached to Northern Front operations, were sentenced to death on Wednesday evening for desertion amidst recent advances by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in Lubero territory.
M23 rebels have seized control of several towns including Kanyabayonga, Miriki, Kimaka, Luofu, and Kayna. Additionally, they captured the FARDC’s military camp of Kasando, located approximately 4 kilometers from Kirumba town.
Before the Butembo garrison military court, presided over by Captain Magistrate Byamungu Munanira, the soldiers faced charges including the dissipation of war munitions, fleeing from the enemy in Kaseghe and Matembe, violation of orders, and robbery. The court learned that the soldiers abandoned ammunition and fled the frontline without commanding officers’ orders.
Munanira sentenced one soldier to 10 years of penal servitude for robbery committed during active duty. However, he released four soldiers’ wives due to lack of evidence linking them to their husbands’ desertion.
Second Lieutenant Reagan Mbuyi Kalonji, FARDC Spokesperson for Northern Front operations, emphasized that the sentences serve as a deterrent against violating military instructions during combat. Tensions remain high as both sides maintain their positions, with M23 rebels threatening to advance towards Butembo town.
In March 2022, M23, led by Bertrand Bisimwa and General Sultan Makenga, resumed conflict against the government. The DR Congo government accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, a claim denied by both Rwanda and M23.
The rebels argue that their fight is against corruption, xenophobia, and discrimination within the leadership of the DR Congo.
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