Kabila stated that the entity is complicit in political persecution, as is the case with the criminal proceedings brought against him by the military courts, and affirmed that these actions threaten national reconciliation.

The former head of state considered the accusations against him of treason, war crimes, murder, rape, torture, support for armed insurrections, and complicity with the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) is a judicial farce, orchestrated by a desperate government incapable of taking responsibility for its own failures.”

It added that these acts are distractions from the corruption, poor governance, and nepotism commonplace in the country’s leadership.

It assessed that national reconciliation will not be achieved through agreements like those signed in Washington with Rwanda and in Doha with the AFC/M23 rebels, which have no practical effect on the ground.

Nor will it be achieved through selective trials, it noted, but rather requires genuine dialogue that brings together all stakeholders.

The Prosecutor’s Office requested the death penalty for the former president of the DRC, who is facing trial in absentia for treason and war crimes, organizing an insurrection, and conspiring against the country.

jdt/ro/kmg