Failed Coup Attempt in DRC: State Continues Plea for $250 Million in Damages on Appeal
The Court of Appeal in Kinshasa/Gombe has entered the plea stage in the case of the failed coup d’état and the attack on the residence of Vital Kamerhe, the President of the National Assembly. During the hearing on Monday, January 6, 2024, at the military prison of Ndolo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, as the civil party, reiterated its plea previously presented to the first judge at the Garrison Military Tribunal in Kinshasa/Gombe.
State’s Argument
Led by Maître Tharcisse Matadi Wamba Kamba Mutu, the collective representing the DRC expressed satisfaction with the first-degree sentence, even though they were not entirely pleased with the amount awarded by the initial judge. Despite this, they affirmed that their plea remained steadfast throughout the appeal process at the Court of Appeal in Kinshasa/Gombe.
Legal Proceedings
The defense attorneys for the accused individuals claimed during the hearing that no new evidence had been presented before the Court. Tharcisse Matadi Wamba emphasized that the convicted individuals had appealed their sentences, alleging the presence of new facts that could overturn the decision, which, according to him, was unfounded.
State’s Claim for Damages
In its presentation to the military tribunal in Gombe, the DRC argued that it suffered both moral and material damages as a result of the events. The state cited the dissemination of negative perceptions about the country by foreign entities, leading to civil unrest and fear among the population during the attacks on May 18-19, 2024. The Republic invoked acts of destruction and other offenses committed by the defendants, resulting in extensive damage to public property. The DRC sought $250 million in damages.
As the appeal trial continues, the next session will feature the prosecution’s closing arguments, followed by the defense attorneys’ pleas. The initial trial saw 37 out of 51 accused individuals, including Marcel Malanga, sentenced to death for charges related to the attempted coup, terrorism, illegal possession of weapons, attempted murder, criminal association, murder, and terrorism financing.
In conclusion, the legal battle over the failed coup attempt in the DRC continues, with the state persisting in its plea for substantial damages to compensate for the moral and material losses incurred during the incident. The outcome of the appeal trial remains uncertain, as both the prosecution and defense make their final arguments in this high-stakes case. Stay tuned for further updates as this complex legal saga unfolds.
This journalistic coverage aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing legal proceedings and the implications for all parties involved in this high-profile case. Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of the legal system and the complexities of seeking justice in a case of national significance.