Political Analyst Marius Kudumo, while weighing in on the death sentence of former President Joseph Kabila, noted that the ruling marks a first in SADC.

 Dr. Kudumo believes that such matters should be determined by an impartial and competent court of law rather than a military tribunal.

He added that, in his opinion, political considerations rather than legal grounds appear to be driving the case. 

According to Dr. Kudumo, the situation serves the interests of the political elite while affecting the general population of the DRC, adding that there is now tension and fear of retribution in the DRC.

Dr. Kudumo also highlighted potential political consequences of the ruling, including the tendency of leaders to cling to power. 

He said public office-bearers should leave office voluntarily and without fear, and that governance should prioritise the needs of citizens rather than appeasing external investors.

Dr. Kudumo stressed that political instability can create opportunities for the looting of national resources, adding that Kabila's death sentence has implications for political leadership and could influence how leaders approach public office in the region.

Kabila's People's Party for Reconstruction and Democracy called the verdict a political and unfair decision.