Executed The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has recently resumed executions after a two-decade moratorium, a decision that has sparked widespread attention and controversy both locally and internationally.
The government’s decision to reinstate the death penalty has been justified as a necessary step to curb escalating crime and maintain public order.
However, it has raised serious human rights concerns.
In March 2024, the Congolese government officially lifted the moratorium on the death penalty. Justice Minister Rose Mutombo Kiese stated that capital punishment would now apply to crimes such as treason, war crimes, crimes against humanity, espionage, rebellion, and criminal conspiracy.
This decision was reportedly aimed at addressing rising urban violence and criminal activity.
On January 5, 2025, over 170 individuals, mostly between the ages of 18 and 35, were transferred to Angenga prison for execution.
These individuals were accused of being involved in criminal gangs, known locally as “Kulunas” or urban bandits, and were convicted of crimes like armed robbery and urban violence.
The DRC government argues that reinstating the death penalty serves as a deterrent against serious crimes and urban violence.
Justice Minister Constant Mutamba defended the move as a response to public demand for stronger measures to restore security, especially in major cities.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have condemned Congo’s decision, describing it as a “callous disregard for human rights.”
Critics argue that the death penalty does not address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and unemployment.
Additionally, there are concerns about the fairness of trials, with reports of judicial corruption and coerced confessions being common in the DRC.
The resumption of executions also stems from the controversial trial of individuals accused of attempting to overthrow the government.
In May 2024, a failed coup attempt targeted President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration.
The coup was allegedly led by Christian Malanga, a Congolese political figure based in the United States, who was killed during the operation.
Following the failed coup, a military court in Kinshasa sentenced 37 individuals to death in September 2024.
Among those condemned were three Americans—Marcel Malanga (Christian Malanga’s son), Tyler Thompson, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun—along with a British citizen and a Canadian national.
They were charged with terrorism, criminal conspiracy, and endangering state security.
The trial, however, faced significant criticism for procedural shortcomings. It was conducted in French without proper translation, and some defendants alleged coercion and torture.
Despite these issues, the court handed down death sentences, further fueling global criticism.
The international community has reacted strongly against the DRC’s reinstatement of executions. Amnesty International and various foreign governments have expressed concern about due process violations and the harshness of the sentences.
The U.S. State Department acknowledged the verdicts and emphasized the right of the convicted individuals to appeal.
The DRC’s decision to resume executions, both for criminal activity and the attempted coup, highlights the country’s struggle to balance security enforcement with human rights obligations.
While the government views capital punishment as a tool to deter crime and political unrest, human rights advocates warn of irreversible miscarriages of justice and systemic judicial flaws.
The situation continues to draw global attention, emphasizing the need for a fair and transparent justice system in Congo.
