A Brussels court has ordered former Belgian diplomat Count Étienne Davignon to stand trial for alleged involvement in the 1961 assassination of Patrice Lumumba, marking the first prosecution linked to Lumumba’s murder.

On March 17, the chambre du conseil de Bruxelles referred the 93-year-old Davignon to a correctional tribunal over his alleged role in Lumumba’s death.

Davignon, who has consistently denied involvement, faces charges related to unlawful detention, transfer of a prisoner of war, deprivation of an impartial trial, and humiliating or degrading treatment.

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Lumumba’s family welcomed the decision, saying it represents progress toward accountability, while acknowledging more steps remain.

Davignon, now 93, has indicated he may appeal within a 15-day window.

The case could go to trial as early as January 2027, according to Lumumba family representatives.

The ruling suggests an indirect role by Davignon in Lumumba’s death, rather than a direct homicide.

Davignon may appeal the renvoi, which would move the case to the chamber of indictments.

Davignon was not present at the ruling announcement and has been absent from prior hearings.

With other suspects having died, Davignon is the sole remaining figure facing trial; his spokesperson did not respond to comments.

The decision comes from the Brussels investigative chamber and stems from a 2011 lawsuit filed by Lumumba’s family.