Three Americans Sentenced to Death in Congo After Failed Coup Attempt Involving Coercion and Misled Participation

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, three American citizens—Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson Jr., and Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun—have been sentenced to death for their involvement in a failed coup attempt.

The coup, which was orchestrated by Marcel’s father, Christian Malanga, was aimed at the presidential palace and an ally of President Felix Tshisekedi. Marcel Malanga testified that he and his friends were coerced into participating under the threat of death from his father.

The defense for the accused is preparing to appeal the death sentence. The U.S. State Department is closely monitoring the situation, with spokesperson Matthew Miller noting that the defendants have the right to appeal. While Miller did not comment on the fairness of the trial, the State Department is actively involved in observing the proceedings.

The coup attempt, which took place in May, resulted in six deaths, including that of Christian Malanga, who was killed by the Congolese army while trying to resist arrest. Marcel Malanga claimed in court that he was forced into the attack by his father, who had threatened to kill him and his high school friend. Other members of the militia also reported being misled and threatened.

Marcel’s mother, Brittney Sawyer, has maintained her son’s innocence, asserting that he was merely following his father’s orders, who was leading a self-proclaimed government in exile.

Tyler Thompson Jr. and Benjamin Zalman-Polun were reportedly unaware of the coup’s true nature. Thompson, who believed he was on vacation, and Zalman-Polun, who knew Christian Malanga through business connections, were both caught up in the plot unintentionally.

Besides the three Americans, a Briton, a Belgian, and a Canadian were also sentenced to death along with 27 other individuals for their roles in the failed coup. The case has drawn attention from U.S. lawmakers, including Senators Mike Lee and Mitt Romney, who are engaging with the State Department to help resolve the matter and seek the release of the American defendants.