Three Americans sentenced to death for Congo coup attempt

The three Americans—Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson Jr., and Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun—were convicted on charges that included terrorism and criminal association. The younger Malanga, son of the coup leader, claimed he was coerced into participating under threats from his father. Thompson, who traveled to Congo believing he was going on a vacation, and Zalman-Polun, who had prior connections to Malanga through business, were also swept up in the events. Following the coup attempt, they were detained in harsh conditions, which included inadequate food and medical care. The U.S. State Department has not classified their detentions as wrongful, complicating potential diplomatic efforts for their release.

Background of the Coup Attempt

The coup attempt occurred on May 19, 2024, when a group of armed individuals attacked government buildings, including the residence of a key political ally of President Tshisekedi. The attack was thwarted by Congolese military forces, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including Christian Malanga, who was attempting to lead the uprising while live-streaming the events. The military court’s verdict was delivered in a context of heightened tensions in the DRC, where the government recently reinstated the death penalty after a moratorium lasting over two decades.

Legal Proceedings and Reactions

The defendants were given five days to appeal their sentences, with their lawyer indicating plans to do so based on claims of inadequate legal representation during the trial. The case has drawn attention from U.S. lawmakers, with senators from Utah reportedly engaging with the State Department regarding the situation of the imprisoned Americans. The families of the convicted maintain their innocence, arguing that the young men did not understand the true nature of their involvement in the coup attempt.

Implications of the Sentencing

The harsh sentences reflect ongoing issues of governance and security in the DRC, where the government is dealing with various insurgent groups and civil unrest. Human rights organizations have criticized the use of the death penalty, citing concerns over the fairness of the judicial process. Should the sentences be carried out, the three Americans would likely face execution by firing squad, marking a significant escalation in the DRC’s approach to political dissent.