Former Congolese rebel leader Roger Lumbala went on trial in France on Wednesday over alleged atrocities committed during the Second Congo War, one of the deadliest conflicts since World War II…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Lumbala, 67, is accused of complicity in crimes against humanity linked to his role in the conflict that engulfed multiple African nations between 1998 and 2003. Arrested in France in 2020 under the principle of universal jurisdiction, he has remained in custody in Paris since then. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment.
At the opening of proceedings, Lumbala described himself as a former trade minister, lawmaker, and media entrepreneur, denying any command over armed groups. However, French investigators portray him as a warlord who allowed fighters from his Uganda-backed rebel movement, the Rally of Congolese Democrats and Nationalists (RCD-N), to commit widespread abuses.
Holding Lumbala accountable sends a strong signal that abuses will be investigated and justice sought
These include pillaging, executions, rape and mutilation, particularly in northeastern regions bordering Uganda and South Sudan. UN investigators have also accused his forces of targeting ethnic pygmy communities.
The charges focus on events in 2002 and 2003 in Ituri and Haut-Uele provinces, where prosecutors allege that rape was systematically used as a weapon of war against women from Nande and Bambuti communities suspected of supporting the government.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been fuelled by competition over vast mineral resources, including gold, diamonds and coltan, a key component in mobile phones. Armed groups and foreign powers have repeatedly clashed for control of the region’s wealth.
The trial comes amid renewed violence in the eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group has recently expanded its control, allegedly with backing from Rwanda — a claim Kigali denies.
Dozens of victims are expected to testify during the month-long proceedings, though logistical challenges may limit their participation. A verdict is expected on December 19.
Human rights organisations, including TRIAL International and the Clooney Foundation for Justice, have welcomed the trial as a critical step toward accountability.
