FBI Investigates 2024 Coup Attempt in Kinshasa

Kinshasa, DRC - February 7, 2026 - The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating a failed coup attempt that occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2024. On the morning of 19 May 2024, armed men led by Congolese-American Christian Malanga stormed the presidential palace, claiming to have overthrown President Félix Tshisekedi. They also attacked the homes of senior officials, including former Economy Minister Vital Kamerhe, killing several of his bodyguards, and former Defense Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba. Tshisekedi’s security forces engaged the assailants in a violent battle at the palace, killing Malanga and arresting several individuals, including his son Marcel and other Americans: Tyler Thomson, Benjamin Zalman-Polun, and Joseph Peter. Those arrested at the presidential palace were sentenced to death, but American nationals were extradited to the U.S. in April 2025 for trial in their country of origin. The U.S. Department of Justice announced charges including conspiracy to support terrorist acts, use of weapons of mass destruction, attacks on state infrastructure, and conspiracy to commit murder or kidnapping. According to Radio France Internationale (RFI), prior to their trial in Utah in March 2026, two FBI agents traveled to Kinshasa to investigate the crimes and assess the damage caused by the coup attempt. Officials expected to be questioned include investigators, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges involved at all levels in the case. Conclusion In summary, the report highlights a period of significant diplomatic tension and internal reform in Rwanda and the broader Great Lakes region from late January to early February 2026. Domestically, Rwanda is advancing its digital governance and export goals while addressing social security and tax compliance. Regionally, however, the situation remains fragile, characterized by escalating friction with Burundi and the DRC, ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, and the controversial use of foreign mercenaries. These developments underscore a complex landscape where Rwanda continues to strive for economic progress and international recognition while navigating deep-rooted regional security challenges. By Jeff Buleli