In a landmark ruling, a French court has sentenced Roger Lumbala, a former rebel leader from the Democratic Republic of Congo, to 30 years in jail for complicity in crimes against humanity that occurred over two decades ago. Lumbala led a rebel movement backed by Uganda that was accused of committing numerous atrocities during the Second Congo War, which erupted in 1998. Found guilty of various grave offenses such as torture, summary executions, and sexual slavery, the 67-year-old has consistently claimed the illegitimacy of the court’s authority.
Lumbala's case, which was prosecuted under the principle of 'universal jurisdiction,' signifies a historic move towards holding individuals accountable for serious international crimes. The trial involved 65 survivors and witnesses who bravely testified about the abuses inflicted during the conflict. Advocates for justice view this verdict as a vital step in pushing back against decades of impunity in the region, as ongoing conflicts continue to devastate eastern DR Congo.
Lumbala's case, which was prosecuted under the principle of 'universal jurisdiction,' signifies a historic move towards holding individuals accountable for serious international crimes. The trial involved 65 survivors and witnesses who bravely testified about the abuses inflicted during the conflict. Advocates for justice view this verdict as a vital step in pushing back against decades of impunity in the region, as ongoing conflicts continue to devastate eastern DR Congo.
