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DR Congo Senate Strips Joseph Kabila of Immunity for Rebel Ties

The former president faces prosecution in military courts over allegations of supporting the Rwanda-backed M23 militia, raising concerns over political stability in the region.

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Democratic Republic of Congo's former President Joseph Kabila leaves after briefing memebrs of the media, following talks with South Africa's former President Thabo Mbeki at the Thabo Mbeki Foundation in Johannesburg, South Africa, March 18, 2025. REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo
Current DRC President Felix Tshisekedi (R) accuses his predecessor Joseph Kabila (L) of plotting against him
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Overview

  • The DRC Senate voted 88 to 5 to lift ex-president Joseph Kabila's lifetime immunity, enabling prosecution for alleged crimes including treason, war crimes, and insurrection.
  • Kabila is accused of collaborating with the M23 rebel group, which has seized significant territory in eastern Congo with Rwandan backing.
  • President Felix Tshisekedi has alleged Kabila conspired with M23 to overthrow the government, a claim Kabila denies as politically motivated.
  • Kabila's People's Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD) has been suspended, and his properties have been raided by authorities.
  • Analysts warn the move could deepen political divisions and exacerbate instability in the conflict-ridden eastern DRC.