The Democratic Republic of Congo has lifted a moratorium on the death penalty, which had been in place for over two decades, in response to escalating violence and militant activities, the justice ministry announced in a statement on Friday.
The ministry’s statement, issued earlier this week, noted that the 2003 ban had allowed individuals accused of treason and espionage to evade appropriate punishment.
Eastern Congo has long been entrenched in conflict, characterized by the presence of more than 120 armed groups vying for control over land and resources, and at times, defending their communities.
According to the government, the persistent violence in the east has perpetuated recurrent conflicts, leading to a surge in attacks that instill fear among local populations.
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In recent years, the M23 rebel group, widely regarded as the most influential in the region and allegedly linked to neighboring Rwanda, has continued its assaults on villages, prompting mass displacements toward Goma, the largest city in the area. M23’s grip extends over numerous communities, exerting control over approximately half of North Kivu province.
The situation in the province has deteriorated in recent weeks as security forces engage in combat with the rebels. Residents report that the group primarily launches attacks, including bomb strikes, from hills overlooking remote towns.