In a significant political shift, the Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo has voted to strip former President Joseph Kabila of his immunity, which paves the way for potential prosecution over treason and war crimes. Authorities have accused Kabila of providing support to the M23 rebel group operating in the east of the country.
On Thursday, nearly 90 senators voted in favor of pursuing treason charges, while only five opposed the motion. Senate Speaker Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde announced, “The senate authorizes the prosecution and lifting of Joseph Kabila's immunity.” Kabila, who served as president from 2001 to 2019, did not attend the session to defend himself against the allegations.
Despite the serious charges, Kabila has previously rejected any ties to the M23 insurgents. Following his presidency, he was granted the status of "senator for life," which typically ensures legal protection. However, in light of the escalating conflict, DR Congo's military prosecutor sought to have his immunity revoked to move forward with the case.
Kabila has been residing in South Africa for the last two years, although he hinted at returning to DR Congo to help mediate the ongoing violence in the east. Reports suggested he had returned to Goma, a city currently under M23 control, but were dismissed by his political party, the People's Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD). This month, the government also disbanded the PPRD, citing its unclear stance regarding the M23's actions.
Justice Minister Mutamba called for the confiscation of Kabila's assets and urged him to return to the nation and confront the charges against him. Observers indicate that a trial could further destabilize the already tumultuous political landscape in DR Congo, which has been rife with conflict since the M23 uprising began in 2012. Kabila's supporters have labeled the prosecution as an act of "pure theatre," designed to distract the population from the nation's pressing issues.
For additional updates on the situation in DR Congo, visit BBC Africa.
On Thursday, nearly 90 senators voted in favor of pursuing treason charges, while only five opposed the motion. Senate Speaker Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde announced, “The senate authorizes the prosecution and lifting of Joseph Kabila's immunity.” Kabila, who served as president from 2001 to 2019, did not attend the session to defend himself against the allegations.
Despite the serious charges, Kabila has previously rejected any ties to the M23 insurgents. Following his presidency, he was granted the status of "senator for life," which typically ensures legal protection. However, in light of the escalating conflict, DR Congo's military prosecutor sought to have his immunity revoked to move forward with the case.
Kabila has been residing in South Africa for the last two years, although he hinted at returning to DR Congo to help mediate the ongoing violence in the east. Reports suggested he had returned to Goma, a city currently under M23 control, but were dismissed by his political party, the People's Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD). This month, the government also disbanded the PPRD, citing its unclear stance regarding the M23's actions.
Justice Minister Mutamba called for the confiscation of Kabila's assets and urged him to return to the nation and confront the charges against him. Observers indicate that a trial could further destabilize the already tumultuous political landscape in DR Congo, which has been rife with conflict since the M23 uprising began in 2012. Kabila's supporters have labeled the prosecution as an act of "pure theatre," designed to distract the population from the nation's pressing issues.
For additional updates on the situation in DR Congo, visit BBC Africa.
