Former DRC president Joseph Kabila to be tried in absentia #rwanda #RwOT

Kabila, who led the country from 2001 to 2019, is being tried in absentia after the Senate voted on May 22 to lift the immunity he held as a lifetime senator. The decision opened the door for prosecutors to formally bring charges against the former head of state.

The military prosecution accuses Kabila of playing a key role in supporting the M23/AFC rebel coalition, which has taken control of Goma since January and Bukavu since February this year.

Investigators say their case is supported by witness testimonies and physical evidence gathered from rebel-controlled areas. Prosecutors also allege that Kabila met with rebel leaders and played an active role in shaping their political and military strategies.

Although Kabila has denied the accusations, the government insists he is a central figure in the rebellion. In March, Kabila dismissed the claims as politically motivated and said if he were truly behind the insurgency, the rebels would have made even more gains.

Kabila returned to the country in May after more than a year in exile across several African nations, including South Africa. He travelled to Goma and Bukavu, where he held meetings with various community and political groups. His supporters described the visit as a step toward peace. However, authorities in Kinshasa saw it differently, accusing him of using the meetings to legitimise the rebel movement.

Before his return, Kabila released a 12-point proposal that he said could help bring peace to the DRC. His plan included disbanding armed groups, engaging in national dialogue, reaching out to neighbouring countries, and ending authoritarian rule.

Despite these public gestures, the government views Kabila's actions as a direct threat to national stability.

Kabila is not expected to appear in court, but officials say the hearings will continue in his absence. The trial marks the first time a former Congolese president has faced prosecution before a military court.

Joseph Kabila, who led DRC from 2001 to 2019, is being tried in absentia after the Senate voted on May 22 to lift the immunity he held as a lifetime senator. The decision opened the door for prosecutors to formally bring charges against the former head of state.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/former-drc-president-joseph-kabila-to-be-tried-in-absentia