Strengthening Discipline: FARDC in Lubero Sanction 23 Military Personnel
In a bid to uphold discipline within the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), the Military Garrison Court of Butembo initiated proceedings against 23 military personnel in a field trial on Monday, December 30. These soldiers, apprehended in December, face serious allegations stemming from clashes between FARDC and the M23, backed by the Rwandan army, in Lubero territory, North Kivu.
Upholding Justice in Lubero
The court hearings are taking place in the municipality of Lubero, the capital of the eponymous territory, about fifty kilometers from the frontlines. The accused individuals are charged with offenses ranging from misappropriation of war ammunition to attempted rape, theft, loss of weapons, breach of orders, and civilian murder.
During the initial hearing, military justice undertook the identification of the accused. Lieutenant Colonel Mak Hazukay, in charge of communication and awareness for the operational sector Sokola 1 Grand Nord, described the trial as “educational.” He highlighted that these soldiers, instead of defending the front at Limbongo and Matebe, engaged in acts that tarnish the army’s reputation, such as looting, theft, rape, and indiscriminate shooting.
Restoring Military Integrity
Hazukay emphasized the trial’s purpose in reinforcing discipline within the army, stating that military justice will persist in penalizing those who act dishonorably. He stressed the significance of discipline, asserting that behind every deployed unit stands military justice to rectify any misconduct.
In a similar trial held in Lubero last July, several soldiers were convicted, primarily for cowardice in the face of the enemy. The sanctions also targeted troops involved in looting and weapon losses. Hazukay clarified that such behaviors do not stem from military leadership directives, underscoring that these trials demonstrate the army’s intolerance towards misconduct.
A Path to Reinstating Public Trust
Amid ongoing confrontations against the M23 in North Kivu, this trial symbolizes the military authorities’ endeavor to reinforce discipline and regain the population’s confidence in FARDC. The proceedings in Lubero are set to continue in the ensuing days, with anticipated penalties aimed at deterring future transgressions and enhancing accountability within military ranks.