A court in Brussels will have a trial. Étienne Davignon will go to court. He is accused of being part of a killing in 1961. Patrice Lumumba was killed. He was the first prime minister of Congo. This is a big step for Belgium. It will look at its past. The trial will also include other deaths. Maurice Mpolo and Joseph Okito also died.
Davignon is 93 years old. The charges are about war crimes. Police think he helped move Lumumba. They were moved to Katanga. They were killed there. Davignon is the only living Belgian accused. This is the first time a Belgian official goes to court for this. It affects how Belgium and Congo are friends.
Patrice Lumumba wanted Congo to be free. He was a strong leader. His time as prime minister was hard. Belgium did not want to lose power. Lumumba was moved many times. He was killed in Katanga. His family wants justice. They think Belgian leaders planned his death.
Lumumba's family is happy. They think this is good for truth. His granddaughter said, "The truth will come out." The family said, "This is the start of history asking for answers." The trial is important for them.
This court decision is an example. It shows Belgium faces old crimes. The decision can be appealed. But it shows Belgium wants to look at its past. This trial could help other countries. People think it will get much attention. It could bring truth and peace.