Ex-President Accused of Backing M23 Rebels

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is moving to lift former President Joseph Kabila’s immunity, accusing him of supporting the M23 rebel group currently occupying parts of the country's mineral-rich east. Justice Minister Constant Mutamba says there is a “substantial body of documents, testimony, and material facts” linking Kabila to the group. If immunity is lifted, legal proceedings can begin against Kabila, who has lived in South Africa for the past two years.

Kabila, 53, ruled the DRC for 18 years, assuming power in 2001 after his father’s assassination. He became “senator for life” upon leaving office in 2019, a status that protects him from prosecution. The military prosecutor has formally asked the Senate to revoke this immunity.

Tensions escalated after Kabila announced plans to return to help resolve the conflict, followed by unconfirmed reports that he was seen in Goma, an M23 stronghold. His political party, the People's Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), denied the claims. The PPRD has since been banned for its "ambiguous attitude" toward the rebel occupation.

The justice minister insists Kabila must return and defend himself in court. This development comes amid diplomatic talks between the DRC and Rwanda, accused of backing the M23, towards a potential peace deal. The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands in recent months.