The public prosecutor of the Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking the death penalty for former President Joseph Kabila, who is being trie
The public prosecutor of the Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking the death penalty for former President Joseph Kabila, who is being tried in absentia on charges of treason, war crimes, and supporting the M23 rebel group.
Kabila, who led the country from 2001 until 2019 following the assassination of his father, Laurent Kabila, is accused of aiding rebels linked to Rwanda that have captured significant cities in eastern Congo.
His lifetime senatorial immunity was revoked by the government in May. The prosecution is also asking for a 20-year sentence for war crimes and 15 years for conspiracy.
Although Kabila made a brief return from exile in April, appearing in the rebel-controlled city of Goma, his current whereabouts are unknown. Supporters of Kabila characterise the charges as politically motivated.
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