Constant Mutamba, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s former justice minister and a 2023 presidential candidate, could face a decade behind bars if convicted of embezzling nearly $20 million in public funds. The money was earmarked for building a prison in Kisangani.
During closing arguments on Wednesday, prosecutors urged the court to impose a sentence of 10 years of hard labor. They also requested that Mutamba be barred from voting or running for public office for the same duration.
Mutamba’s legal team pushed back, arguing that no funds were misappropriated. They pointed to his decision to involve oversight bodies like the General Inspectorate of Finance in the contract process as evidence of transparency and good faith.
Known for his stance against corruption and his efforts to reform the judiciary, Mutamba has often clashed with members of the legal establishment. His outspoken criticism has made him a controversial figure within political and judicial circles.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict on August 27.
