At least 66 soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have been sentenced to death for cowardice, mutiny and disobeying orders following a military trial in the country’s conflict-hit eastern region, local media have reported.
The soldiers were among 71 military personnel tried before a military court in Walikale, North Kivu province. Four were acquitted, while another received a 10-year prison sentence.
The Congolese army said the trial was aimed at strengthening discipline among troops fighting armed groups in the east, where years of insecurity have continued to undermine government control.
The soldiers were reportedly arrested on October 20 in Walikale after allegedly abandoning their positions and fleeing during clashes with fighters from the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a rebel coalition that includes the M23 group.
The army’s operations against armed groups, particularly the M23, have repeatedly been affected by poor discipline and disorganisation within its ranks.
The government has consistently accused neighbouring Rwanda of backing the M23, an allegation denied by Kigali and the rebels, despite what has been described as overwhelming evidence.
The Congolese military has also faced criticism over its professionalism, while soldiers have complained about poor salaries and inadequate equipment.
Last month, another 27 soldiers were sentenced to death on similar charges of cowardice after reportedly withdrawing from frontline positions during clashes with rebels.
DR Congo reinstated the death penalty in March 2024 after lifting a moratorium that had been in place for 20 years. The government said the decision was necessary to eliminate “traitors” within the military.
Authorities also said capital punishment would apply to individuals involved in armed groups, insurrection, treason and war crimes.
The move attracted widespread criticism from human rights organisations. However, no formal executions have been carried out since the death penalty was reinstated.
Since the beginning of 2025, at least 507 soldiers have been convicted, including 381 death sentences, according to figures compiled by French broadcaster RFI.
In October 2025, former Congolese President Joseph Kabila was sentenced to death in absentia over charges including war crimes and treason. Kabila denied the allegations but did not appear in court to defend himself.
He has since been named as the leader of the FRN.
