The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to face Rwanda in a landmark trial at the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights on February 12 in Arusha, Tanzania.
Ahead of the trial, the DRC’s National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) and over 500 human rights organizations are mobilizing to provide evidence of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and violations of international law committed in eastern Congo.
Deputy Justice Minister Me Samuel Mbemba emphasized that Rwanda’s role in the conflict is undeniable, citing UN reports and eyewitness accounts confirming Rwandan military presence. The DRC government is pursuing justice on military, diplomatic, and legal fronts to hold Rwandan authorities accountable for alleged atrocities, including massacres, sexual violence, and resource exploitation, the CNDH said.
The case is seen as a major test for the African Court's ability to mediate conflicts and uphold justice within the continent.
The DRC filed a court application in August 2023 against Rwanda at the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, accusing it of supporting the M23 rebel group and violating human rights during an ongoing conflict in eastern DRC since 2021. The DRC alleges that Rwanda’s involvement has led to massacres, the displacement of over 520,000 people, the destruction of schools and infrastructure, and a cholera outbreak.
Rwanda is also accused of providing refuge to individuals suspected of serious crimes, including Laurent Nkunda, the former leader of the National Congress for the Defense of the People. This rebel group was involved in the Kivu conflict, an armed struggle against the Congolese military.
The DRC seeks reparations, withdrawal of Rwandan troops, and an end to support for the M23, highlighting longstanding tensions with significant implications for regional stability.