MWE Correspondent
The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has voted overwhelmingly to lift the immunity of former President Joseph Kabila, clearing the way for his prosecution on charges including treason, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
The decision follows allegations that Kabila supported the March 23 Movement (M23), a rebel group accused of seizing territory in the country’s mineral-rich eastern regions with backing from Rwanda.(Wikipedia)
On Thursday, 88 senators voted in favor of lifting Kabila’s immunity, with five opposing and three abstaining. Kabila, who served as president from 2001 to 2019, was granted the title of ‘senator for life’ upon leaving office, a status that conferred immunity from prosecution. The Senate’s decision follows a request earlier this month by the DRC’s military attorney general to revoke this lifetime immunity.(AP News)
Justice Minister Constant Mutamba stated that there is a “substantial body of documents, testimony, and material facts” linking Kabila to the M23 group, which has intensified conflict in eastern Congo. The M23 rebels have reportedly captured key cities such as Goma and Bukavu since January, leading to significant displacement and humanitarian concerns.
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Kabila, currently residing in South Africa, has not commented on the recent developments. He has previously denied any involvement with the M23 rebels. His political party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), has also been suspended amid the allegations.
The M23 rebellion, reportedly supported by Rwandan forces, has led to the capture of significant mineral-rich territories in eastern DRC. The conflict has resulted in widespread human rights abuses, including forced labor and arbitrary detentions, as reported by Human Rights Watch and other organizations.
President Félix Tshisekedi has accused Kabila of conspiring with the M23 to destabilize the country. The Senate’s decision to lift Kabila’s immunity is seen as a significant step in addressing the ongoing conflict and holding those responsible accountable.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with efforts underway to mediate peace and address the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict in eastern DRC.
