Diaspora
DRC-Attempted Coup: Two American Defendants Cite Coercion
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), two American citizens on trial for their alleged involvement in a failed coup in May told a court that they were coerced by the coup leader.
The leader of the coup, U.S.-based Congolese politician Christian Malanga, was killed by security forces on May 19. Marcel Malanga, 22, the son of Christian Malanga, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun, testified that Christian Malanga threatened to kill them if they did not comply.
Marcel said he came to Congo at his father’s invitation and had no prior involvement in the plot. He added that he is American and does not speak French or Lingala. Marcel and Zalman-Polun are among over 50 individuals, including citizens from various countries, on trial for charges like illegal arms possession, criminal conspiracy, and terrorism. Zalman-Polun, a long-time business associate of Malanga, denied involvement in the coup planning.
The trial was adjourned until Monday, July 8. Tyler Thompson Jr., 21, flew to Africa from Utah with the younger Malanga for what his family believed was a vacation, with all expenses paid by the elder Malanga. The young men had played high school football together in the Salt Lake City suburbs. Other teammates accused Marcel of offering up to $100,000 to join him on a “seDRC-Attempted Coup: Two American Defendants Cite Coercion curity job” in Congo. Thompson appeared before the court with a shaved head and sores on his skin, looking nervous and lost as he confirmed his name and other personal details.
His stepmother, Miranda Thompson, told The Associated Press that the family found out about the hearing too late to arrange travel to Congo, but hoped to be present for future court dates. Before this week, the family had no proof he was still alive. The U.S. Embassy in Congo told the AP it had yet to gain access to the American prisoners to provide consular services before the trial.
Thompson’s family maintains he had no knowledge of the elder Malanga’s intentions, no plans for political activism and didn’t even plan to enter Congo. He and the Malangas were meant to travel only to South Africa and Eswatini, Thompson’s stepmother said. Marcel Malanga’s mother, Brittney Sawyer, has said her son is innocent and simply followed his father, who considered himself president of a shadow government in exile. Sawyer and the Thompsons are independently crowdfunding for legal expenses and travel funds to be present for the rest of the trial.
Both families say they remain worried about their sons’ health — Malanga has a liver disease, and Thompson contracted malaria earlier in the trip. A prominent Belgian-Congolese researcher on political and security issues, Jean-Jacques Wondo, also appeared in court on Friday. It was unclear what evidence was held against him. Human Rights Watch said it had consulted with Wondo for years on research, and his only link to Malanga appears to be an old photo.
The attack lasted about three hours before it was repelled. At least three people were killed in the attacks in Kinshasa, and several attackers, including “foreigners” are now in custody. The implications of foreign interference in DRC are far-reaching, with the conflict in eastern Congo becoming intertwined with the exploitation of the country’s natural resources, leading to a cycle of poverty and militarization.
The illegal exploitation of minerals and natural resources remains a significant driver of instability in the region. Neighboring countries such as Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda compete for economic control over Congo’s lucrative resources, military influence, and political power. The conflict has resulted in a significant number of human
rights violations, including sexual violence and forced recruitment of children into armed groups.
The conflict has also caused significant economic instability and disruption, exacerbated poor economic conditions, and led to a worsening food insecurity situation.
Diplomatic concerns between the U.S. and DRC have also been raised, with the U.S. being DRC’s largest bilateral donor, providing more than $1.7 billion in health assistance over the past 20 years.
The U.S. has provided more than $500 million annually in humanitarian assistance in the DRC. The U.S. aims to develop an enhanced economic relationship with the DRC as a major investor and trading partner. The two countries have signed a bilateral investment treaty and a trade and investment framework agreement.
The U.S. Embassy in Congo has expressed concern over the trial, with a spokesperson stating that they are “monitoring the situation closely” and have “requested access to the American citizens detained in connection with the alleged coup attempt.” The DRC government has assured the U.S. that the trial will be fair and transparent.
As the trial continues, the implications of foreign interference in DRC and the diplomatic concerns between the U.S. and DRC will remain a focus of attention. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for the
region
Get ready for the most explosive edition yet! Diaspora Watch 39th edition is packed with breaking news, shocking revelations, and heartwarming stories that will leave you breathless!
Print on Demand & FREE Digital View:
https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3036398?__r=1069759
Diaspora Watch on Amazon:
https://shorturl.at/1ZlB6
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
DIASPORA WATCH 39TH EDITION: GLOBAL NEWS EXPLOSION!
Putin and Trump hold the fate of Ukraine in the balance as they engage in high-stakes talks! What will be the outcome? Find out inside!
Mark Carney sworn in as Canadian Prime Minister! A new era begins in Canadian politics, but what does the future hold?
Trump drops a bombshell, declaring Biden’s last-minute pardons “null and void”! The implications are staggering – get the full story inside!
Global growth set to slow down in 2025 and 2026, warns OECD report! What does this mean for the global economy?
SpaceX capsule delivers four astronauts to International Space Station! A historic achievement in space exploration that will leave you starstruck!
Your WhatsApp account can be compromised in minutes – find out how to stay safe online!
African Union rejects parallel government in Sudan, warns of country’s partition! The AU takes a firm stance on Sudan’s political crisis – get the latest inside!
Nigeria set to appoint new envoys as vetting process begins! Who will make the cut?
Nnamdi Kanu expresses gratitude as Chief Justice reassigned terrorism case! A significant development in the Nnamdi Kanu case – find out more!
ECOWAS Parliament intervenes in Guinea-Bissau, Liberia crises! Regional leaders work towards a peaceful resolution – get the full story!
And in a heartwarming turn of events, Asake reconciles with ailing father, promises new house and responsibility for 11-year-old daughter!
Diaspora Watch Unveils 38th Edition: Get ready for the most anticipated edition yet!
Print on Demand & FREE Digital View: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3030359?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
Diaspora Watch is proud to present its 38th edition, packed with the latest news, trends, and analysis from around the world.
Our cover headlines are buzzing with hot topics: the mass trial of opposition figures in Tunisia, the UK government’s refusal to pay Rwanda over a canceled migrant deal, and Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress, outlining his vision for a second term.
But that’s not all – we’re also diving into the world of sports, with a special feature on Nigeria’s first Super Bowl winner, Moro Ojomo, who received a hero’s welcome at Aso Villa. And, meet the 35-year-old Nigerian man who’s making waves with his incredible talent for building helicopters and guns from rubber!
In our lifestyle section, we’re exploring the devastating consequences of procrastination and how to overcome it. Plus, find out why Nigerian celebrities are caught up in Lamborghini fever!
As always, Diaspora Watch is your premier source for compelling stories, analysis, and perspectives that matter to Africans everywhere.
So, grab your copy now and stay informed, inspired, and connected to the global African community!
We are excited to announce the release of the 37th edition of Diaspora Watch, a publication that delves into the most pressing issues affecting the diaspora community. In this latest edition, we embark on a journey to uncover the truth, seek justice, and navigate the intricacies of our increasingly interconnected world.
Print on Demand & FREE Digital View: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3030188?__r=1069759
SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/
The Nigeria-Biafra Civil War is a critical issue that we explore in depth. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, is demanding a public apology and ₦10 trillion in compensation from President Bola Tinubu for the atrocities committed against the Igbo people during the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War. This demand comes on the heels of former military leader General Ibrahim Babangida’s revelation that the 1966 coup was not an Igbo-led conspiracy, as previously alleged.
We also analyze the implications of the US 2025 Visa Waiver Programme, exploring its effects on global mobility, economic development, and national security. The programme allows citizens of 40 eligible countries to travel to the US without a visa, raising important questions about the impact on diaspora communities.
Nigeria’s economic reforms are another key issue that we examine. Critics argue that these reforms disproportionately affect the poor, and we explore alternative solutions that prioritize economic justice and equality.
Climate change is a pressing global issue, and we highlight the urgent need for collective action, sustainable solutions, and global cooperation. Grenada’s Prime Minister has made a passionate plea for climate change partnership at the CARICOM meeting, emphasizing the devastating impacts of climate change on the Caribbean region.
Finland’s seasonal work permit applications are also explored, providing opportunities for foreign workers to contribute to the country’s economy. We delve into the details of the programme, its benefits, and the requirements for eligibility.
Furthermore, we celebrate Ayra Starr’s milestone achievement as the first African female artist to win the Best International Act award at the MOBO Awards. This achievement highlights the significance of African representation in the global music industry.
In this edition of Diaspora Watch, we tackle the tough issues, celebrate the triumphs, and explore the complexities of our global village.
Join us on this journey as we strive to inform, educate, and inspire. Get your copy of Diaspora Watch Publication 37 today! Available in print and digital formats. Subscribe now and stay informed about the issues that matter most to the diaspora community.
UK Invests £180 Million In Solar Panels For Schools And Hospitals
The WhatsApp Hack: How Your Account Can Be Compromised In Minutes
SpaceX Capsule Delivers Four Astronauts To International Space Station
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
Nigeria Ranked 5th Globally, 3rd In Africa As Most Generous Country In World Giving Index 2024
-
Diaspora5 days agoDiaspora Watch – Vol. 39
-
Tech5 days agoThe WhatsApp Hack: How Your Account Can Be Compromised In Minutes
-
Business5 days agoSpaceX Capsule Delivers Four Astronauts To International Space Station
-
Environment3 days agoUK Invests £180 Million In Solar Panels For Schools And Hospitals