DR Congo moves to prosecute ex-President Kabila over rebel ties
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s senate has voted to strip former President Joseph Kabila of his lifetime immunity, clearing the path for his prosecution on charges of treason and war crimes. Authorities allege he supported the M23 rebel group, which has seized territory in the volatile east.
Nearly 90 senators backed the move Thursday, with only five opposing. Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, did not attend the hearing. His “senator for life” status had shielded him from prosecution until now.
The ex-leader, currently residing in South Africa, recently announced plans to return and help resolve the eastern conflict.
Reports of his presence in M23-occupied Goma were denied by his party, the PPRD, which was banned last month over its alleged soft stance on the rebellion.
Justice Minister Mutamba ordered Kabila’s assets seized and urged him to return and “face justice.”
Analysts warn a trial could deepen instability in a nation grappling with M23 violence since 2012.
Kabila’s PPRD dismissed the case as “pure theatre,” accusing the government of diverting attention from national crises.
The ex-president has previously denied ties to the rebels but has yet to respond to the latest allegations.
The move marks a dramatic escalation in DR Congo’s political tensions, raising fears of further unrest.
