A Belgian court has ordered 93-year-old former diplomat Étienne Davignon to stand trial over alleged involvement in the 1961 killing of Congo’s first Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba.

Davignon, the only surviving suspect among a group of Belgian officials accused by Lumumba’s family, faces charges of participation in war crimes. Prosecutors say the case relates to Lumumba’s unlawful detention, transfer, and treatment before his killing.

Lumumba, a key figure in Congo’s independence from Belgium, was killed in January 1961 at the age of 35 during a period of political turmoil and Cold War tensions.

A 2001 Belgian inquiry had already found the country “morally responsible” for the events surrounding his death. The upcoming trial, expected to begin if appeals fail, could mark the first criminal prosecution linked to the assassination.

Davignon has denied the charges.

Belgium Orders Trial of 93-Year-Old Over 1961 Killing of Congo PM Lumumba | WION

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