A former prisoner, previously implicated in the assassination of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s ex-President Laurent Kabila in 2001, has been elevated to the rank of brigadier general as part of a military reorganization.
Eddy Kapend, a former top military aide to Kabila, was released in 2021 through presidential pardons.
Despite allegations, Kapend consistently refuted involvement in the assassination, with rights groups questioning the fairness of the trial.
The recent army restructuring coincided with critical remarks by the former inspector general of the police and army, John Numbi, directed at President Félix Tshisekedi.
Kapend’s appointment as commander of the 22nd military region in Katanga, his native province, occurs just before upcoming elections, prompting speculation about potential political motivations.
Tshisekedi denied any political agenda, emphasizing Kapend’s qualifications and allegiance as reasons for his promotion.