37 People, Including 3 Americans, Sentenced To Death Over Coup Attempt In Congo

In a dramatic turn of events, a military court in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 37 individuals, including three Americans, to death for their involvement in a thwarted coup attempt. The court’s decision, rendered on September 14, 2024, caps a high-profile trial that scrutinized the failed plot which began in May.

The attempted coup, led by opposition figure Christian Malanga, targeted key government locations, including President Felix Tshisekedi’s office and the Palais de la Nation. Early on May 19, armed men attacked the residence of Economy Minister Vital Kamerhe before moving on to the presidential palace. Congolese security forces managed to thwart the coup attempt, resulting in violent clashes. Malanga was killed during the arrest.

Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson Jr., and Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun, the three Americans among the convicted, face the death penalty. Marcel Malanga, the son of Christian Malanga, was implicated alongside his co-defendants. His family maintains that he was merely following his father’s actions and was not involved in the coup. Thompson’s family claims he was in Africa for a vacation and had no knowledge of any political plans.

The court also acquitted 14 defendants during the trial. Lt. Col. Innocent Radjabu, the military prosecutor, had recommended the death penalty for all convicted, except one defendant who has been diagnosed with psychological issues. This recommendation underscores the severity of the charges.

Earlier this year, Congo reinstated the death penalty after a two-decade moratorium, aiming to tackle increasing violence and militant threats. The verdict reflects the government’s hardline stance against political instability and unrest.