North Kivu: Military Trial Opens Against 12 Defendants in Walikale

Walikale, North Kivu, DRC - On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, a military trial commenced in Walikale, with twelve defendants, including Wazalendo fighters and a private first class, appearing before the Beni garrison military court, sitting in a mobile courtroom.

According to Captain Kabeya Claude, presenting the indictment, the defendants are charged with illegal possession of weapons of war, rape of minors, participation in an insurrection, criminal conspiracy, and misappropriation of ammunition for acts committed between 2024 and May 2025.

The trial, initiated by Military Governor Somo Evariste and expected to last approximately two weeks, began with the identification of the defendants and the reading of charges. Authorities emphasize that the procedure is intended to be exemplary and deterrent, given the fragile security context in the region.

Local civil society, closely monitoring proceedings, highlighted that the assassination of one of its members in 2024 in Hombo is also included in this case, reflecting the trial’s broader significance for justice and accountability in North Kivu.