The République démocratique du Congo has officially moved to become a civil party in the high-profile legal proceedings involving the Auditor General of the Forces armées de la République démocratique du Congo (FARDC) and several high-ranking military figures. The case targets General John Numbi, the former Inspector General of the FARDC, and General Christian Tshiwewe, who previously served as the Chief of General Staff and military advisor to President Félix Tshisekedi, along with seven other senior officers and Pascal Nyembo.
This strategic legal move was confirmed by a team of lawyers during a hearing held this Thursday, June 25, 2026, before the High Military Court. While the session was brief, it was notable for the inclusion of Lieutenant-General Constant Ndima, the former military governor of Nord-Kivu, who has joined the judicial panel as an assessor judge.
Speaking after the proceedings, Maître Jean Mupira, a member of the legal collective from the Kinshasa/Gombe bar, remained reserved regarding specific strategies but emphasized the necessity of the state’s involvement. He noted that as the trial progresses, the public will better understand the motivations behind the state’s decision to seek justice directly through this civil action.
Seeking reparations for state prejudice
“It is a matter of legal right for the République démocratique du Congo to stand as a civil party. Our goal is to demonstrate the full extent of the damages suffered by the nation and to ensure the defendants are held liable for financial reparations equivalent to the harm caused,” the legal representative stated before the High Military Court.
The accusations facing the defendants are grave and multifaceted. They are expected to answer for alleged conspiracy, treason, the apology of terrorism, and the dissemination of false information. Additional charges include the violation of military orders, desertion to foreign territories, illegal possession of weapons and ammunition, and inciting military personnel to abandon their duty and discipline.
The Thursday session concluded quickly. Lieutenant-General Joseph Mutombo Katalay Tiende, the First President of the High Military Court, announced a postponement due to state-related obligations and the unavailability of certain court members. This delay is also intended to give defense teams sufficient time to submit formal memorandums for their clients. Consequently, the proceedings have been adjourned until July 9, 2026.
Defendants present and in flight
During the initial phase of the trial, also led by Lieutenant-General Joseph Mutombo Katalay Tiende, the court focused on identifying the accused. Several key figures appeared in person with their legal counsel, including General Christian Tshiwewe Songesa, Major-General Maurice Nyembo Kufi, and Brigadier Generals Chinyabuuma Kamukinde, Ngoy wa Kabila John, and Sangwa Muhemedi John. Colonels Mukombozi Zahinda Guy and Sangwa Lumbu Pathy were also present.
However, several high-profile individuals remain at large. General John Numbi Banza Ntambo, Colonel Tshinabo Kenge Christophe, and Pascal Nyembo Muyumba—the former head of the mineral certification center (CEEC)—failed to appear and are considered fugitives. The Auditor General, Lieutenant-General Lucien-René Likulia Bakumi, requested that the court formally recognize their default status in accordance with the Congolese Military Judicial Code.
This trial adds to a growing list of judicial actions against senior FARDC officers at a time when the country faces significant security challenges in the east, particularly involving the AFC/M23 rebellion. The core of these legal battles often centers on allegations of treason, the execution of unlawful orders, and actions that undermine the integrity of military service.