Three Americans who were sentenced to death for their involvement in a failed coup attempt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) last year have had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment. The decision was announced by the Congolese presidency, marking a significant turn in a case that has drawn international attention.
The trio was among 37 individuals sentenced to death by a military court in September 2023 for their alleged roles in an attack on the presidential palace and the home of a close ally of President Félix Tshisekedi in May. However, President Tshisekedi has now granted them clemency, a move that comes just days before a scheduled visit to Kinshasa by Massad Boulos, the newly appointed U.S. senior advisor for Africa.
Diplomatic Considerations and Legal Implications
Although the U.S. government has not officially declared the three Americans as wrongfully imprisoned, discussions between Washington and Kinshasa regarding their fate have been ongoing. The State Department had previously acknowledged diplomatic engagement on the issue, though no formal demands for their release had been made.
The men, identified as Marcel Malanga Malu, Tylor Thomson, and Zalman Polun Benjamin, were convicted of terrorism, criminal conspiracy, and other charges, all of which they denied. Their alleged leader, Christian Malanga, a U.S. citizen of Congolese descent, was killed during the failed coup attempt alongside five others.
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A Complex Trial and Political Undertones
The case has been highly publicized in the DRC, with trials broadcast on national television and radio. A total of 51 individuals faced military court proceedings, with 14 ultimately acquitted due to a lack of evidence. Among those convicted were a British national, a Belgian, and a Canadian, though it remains unclear whether they, too, will have their sentences commuted.
While death sentences in the DRC have historically been converted into life imprisonment due to a longstanding moratorium, the government lifted this policy in March, citing national security concerns. Despite this, no executions have taken place since the change.
Next Steps for the Convicted Americans
With their sentences reduced, questions remain about whether the three Americans could be transferred to the U.S. to serve their prison terms. A similar decision was made in February for Jean-Jacques Wondo, a Belgian-Congolese citizen who was allowed to return to Belgium due to health issues. However, no official confirmation has been given regarding the Americans’ possible repatriation.
The failed coup attempt, which took place in the early hours of May 19, saw armed men in military uniforms storming key government locations, including the residence of parliamentary speaker Vital Kamerhe and the presidential palace. The attack led to a violent confrontation with security forces.
As international eyes remain on the case, the decision to commute the Americans’ sentences may be seen as a gesture toward diplomacy, signaling a willingness by the DRC government to engage with its global partners while maintaining its stance on national security.
