Kinshasa, DRC — The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Military High Court has called for the execution of Joseph Kabila, the country’s former head of state, following accusations of betrayal, war crimes, and collaboration with rebel groups.

Prosecutors argue that Kabila acted in the interest of Rwanda throughout his presidency and secretly supported rebel factions, including AFC/M23. They accuse him of overseeing atrocities such as deliberate killings, sexual violence, abductions, and torture.

Lt. Gen. Likulia Bakumi Lucien-René, leading the prosecution, said the severity of the crimes left “no grounds for leniency,” recommending the death penalty on multiple counts of war crimes and treason, and additional prison terms for political incitement and conspiracy.

Joseph Kabila, now in exile, has rejected claims of involvement with M23/AFC, but remains a central figure in one of the most high-profile trials in Congo’s recent history.