France, July 26 -- Former Democratic Republic of Congo president Joseph Kabila went on trial in absentia Friday on charges including treason over his alleged support for Rwanda-backed militants.

The trial of Kabila, who returned to live in Goma in May this year, began on Friday at a military court in the Gombe district of the capital Kinshasa.

The former president faces charges of plotting to overthrow the government of President Felix Tshisekedi- which could result in a death sentence - as well as homicide, torture and rape linked to the anti-government force M23.

Other charges include "taking part in an insurrection movement", "crime against the peace and safety of humanity" and "forcible occupation of the city of Goma".

Kabila deni...