The Military Court of Kinshasa-Gombe has commenced the trial in absentia of Corneille Nangaa, the political leader of the Congo River Alliance (AFC). This group serves as the political wing of the M23 armed rebellion, which is supported by Rwanda and controls parts of the North Kivu province in eastern DRC, an area plagued by conflict for over two years.
The trial, broadcast live on national television, began on July 24, 2024, with the reading of charges against the accused and the verification of the identities of those present. Five individuals were in the courtroom.
Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, who arrived shortly before the proceedings began, attended the trial, describing it as “historic.”
The judicial process involves 25 defendants. Five of them were present in court, wearing the uniforms of inmates from Ndolo military prison. Among them was Eric Nkuba Shebantu, identified as the strategic advisor of the AFC, who was arrested several months ago.
In addition to Corneille Nangaa, 19 other defendants are being tried in absentia. Notable names include Sultani Makenga, leader of the M23, Bertrand Bisimwa, the political head of the movement, and spokespeople Willy Ngoma and Lawrence Kanyuka. These individuals are well-known figures within the M23 movement.
Also among the defendants are recent recruits to the Congo River Alliance, following Corneille Nangaa’s lead, such as former journalist Adam Chalwe, Yannick Tshisola, former leader of the youth wing of the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), and Henry Maggie, who was a member of the youth league of the former ruling party during Joseph Kabila’s presidency.
The commencement of this trial marks a significant moment in the DRC’s efforts to address the ongoing conflict and hold accountable those responsible for perpetuating violence in the region.