Runaway Congo Soldiers Face Trial on Violence Charge

Congo authorities have announced that at least 75 soldiers will face trial on Monday, February 10, 2025, for fleeing the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels into the eastern province of South Kivu and committing acts of violence, including murder and looting against civilians.

According to UN reports, after the M23 rebels took over Goma in late January, there were mass violations, including summary executions, gang rape, and sexual slavery.

The UN human rights office found that Congolese soldiers, M23 rebels, and pro-government militias were all implicated. However, Congo blames it on the M23 and Rwanda.

According to a civil society source, the deserting soldiers were 10 people, including seven, sitting in a bar on Friday evening.

Leonidas Tabaro, another civil society leader: “Acts of looting by our uncontrolled soldiers who have fled in the face of the enemy are still being recorded.”

The soldiers facing trial were arrested for fleeing their posts during the M23’s advance and are accused of heinous crimes such as murder, rape, and looting. The trials are seen as an attempt to hold those responsible accountable and bring justice to the victims.

Nestor Mavudisa, provincial army spokesman, said the rogue military men should be punished and called on the population to remain calm.

Critics claim that while the trials are essential to address the atrocities committed, they may also be used as a political tool to cover up larger issues at play.

African leaders urged all parties to hold direct talks during last week’s unprecedented joint summit of Eastern and Southern African blocs. On Sunday, Congo’s government acknowledged Congo’s government’s statement that it had taken note of the decisions adopted during the summit.

Now, all eyes are on Congo, and people wonder whether these trials will lead to real change. The outcome of these trials could set a precedent for how the Congo handles future cases of military misconduct.

The trials are widely regarded as a step in the right direction, but they must be part of a broader effort to reform the military and address the root causes of the conflict.

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