Three Americans Among 37 Sentenced to Death in Congo's Failed Coup Trial

The Americans—Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson Jr., and Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun—were among those found guilty of crimes related to the May 19, 2024, coup attempt. The assault, led by Congolese-American politician and businessman Christian Malanga, resulted in the deaths of six people, including Malanga himself.

According to the AP, Marcel Malanga, the 21-year-old son of the deceased leader, testified that his father had coerced him and a friend into participating in the attack under threat of death. The court's decision follows a trial marked by significant controversy.

Defense attorney Richard Bondo has criticized the trial process, noting the recent reinstatement of the death penalty in Congo and the inadequacy of interpreters during the investigation. “We will challenge this decision on appeal,” Bondo said.

The U.S. Department of State has acknowledged the case but has not labeled the three Americans as wrongfully detained, a designation that would typically trigger diplomatic intervention. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized that the department is monitoring the situation but did not indicate immediate steps toward intervention.

Families of the convicted Americans are calling for legislative intervention. Senators Mitt Romney and Mike Lee from Utah have expressed support, particularly for Tyler Thompson Jr., a resident of the Beehive State.

The case has attracted international attention, highlighting ongoing concerns over human rights and legal processes in Congo. As the appeals process begins, the global community is closely watching the developments.