DR Congo Seeks to Strip Kabila of Immunity

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has formally requested the removal of former President Joseph Kabila’s immunity from prosecution, alleging his involvement in supporting the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group.

Justice Minister Constant Mutamba announced Wednesday that the military prosecutor had submitted a request to the Senate to revoke Kabila’s legal protections, citing evidence of "war crimes, crimes against humanity, and massacres of civilians and military personnel."

Kabila, who has been living in self-imposed exile in South Africa since 2023, has previously denied accusations of collusion with the M23. The rebel faction has seized strategic eastern cities, including Goma and Bukavu, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis that has displaced millions and claimed thousands of lives.

Mounting Allegations and Political Fallout

The move marks the latest escalation in tensions between Kabila and his successor, President Félix Tshisekedi. Last year, Tshisekedi accused Kabila of fueling insurrection in the volatile east—a claim the former leader has rejected.

Kabila, who ruled the DRC for 18 years after succeeding his assassinated father in 2001, retains immunity as a senator for life. His refusal to step down after his term expired in 2016 triggered violent protests before he eventually relinquished power following a contentious 2018 election.

Mutamba warned that Kabila could face trial in absentia if he does not return to the DRC to address the charges. The government has already seized some of his assets and banned his political party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), over its alleged ties to the M23.

Fragile Truce Efforts Amid Ongoing Conflict

Despite recent preliminary talks between the DRC and Rwanda—which denies backing the M23—fighting persists in eastern regions. A tentative truce agreement was reached earlier this month, but clashes continue in South Kivu.

Kabila’s potential return remains uncertain. While reports surfaced in March that he had traveled to rebel-held Goma, his party denied the claims.

The conflict in the mineral-rich east remains one of the world’s most severe humanitarian disasters, with no clear resolution in sight.