Congo’s President Commutes Death Sentences of Three Americans Convicted in Failed Coup Attempt
In a significant diplomatic development, Democratic Republic of the Congo President Felix Tshisekedi has commuted the death sentences of three American citizens convicted for their roles in a failed coup attempt in Kinshasa. The individuals—Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson Jr., and Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun—will now serve life imprisonment instead of facing execution.
The three Americans were arrested following a coup attempt in May 2024, led by opposition figure Christian Malanga. The plot targeted key government buildings, including the presidential palace, but was swiftly neutralized by Congolese security forces. Malanga was killed in the confrontation, while his son, Marcel Malanga, along with Thompson and Zalman-Polun, were taken into custody and later sentenced to death by a military tribunal in September 2024.
The commutation of their sentences comes amid ongoing diplomatic discussions between the United States and the Congolese government. Tshisekedi’s decision is seen as a move to strengthen ties with Washington, particularly as both nations negotiate a minerals agreement aimed at securing critical resources and enhancing security cooperation in the eastern regions of Congo, where rebel activity remains a major concern.
The case of the three Americans had drawn attention from international human rights groups and U.S. officials, who had been advocating for clemency. While the commutation does not grant them freedom, it is considered a positive step in bilateral relations between Congo and the U.S.
As diplomatic channels remain open, it remains to be seen whether further negotiations will lead to additional concessions for the imprisoned Americans.
Source : Swifteradio.com
