The military prosecution in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has sentenced 200 soldiers to death for desertion and other crimes, including rape and the killing of civilians.
The soldiers were accused of abandoning their positions, allowing the M23 rebel group to capture vast areas in eastern DRC. Reports indicate that poor living conditions, delayed salaries, and corruption contributed to their decision to flee rather than fight.
Despite President Félix Tshisekedi’s government investing in military recruitment and weapons, critics argue these efforts are undermined by low troop morale and inadequate pay.
A FARDC colonel commented, “People criticize us now, but we face the same hardships as the rest of the population.”
The trial, held in Musienene near Bukavu, found the soldiers guilty of looting, theft, desertion, and losing military weapons. While the accused admitted some soldiers had committed these crimes, they denied personal involvement.
One of the accused, Siko Mongombo Brice, said, “We were not fleeing; we were trying to locate our unit. That’s how we ended up in that village. Some looters are here, but there are also innocent people like us. Only God knows the truth.”
Judges sentenced a total of 260 soldiers to death, including 55 previously convicted in Musienene on February 28, 2025.
More than 200 of those convicted reportedly escaped from prison after FARDC forces retreated from Bukavu on February 14, 2025.
FARDC spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay stated that the soldiers had disgraced the military and their actions had weakened the army’s position, potentially pushing civilians to support the rebels.