The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has taken a historic step by officially requesting the removal of parliamentary immunity for former President Joseph Kabila, citing serious allegations including war crimes and support for armed rebellion.
Justice Minister Constant Mutamba announced that the Congolese military prosecutor has submitted a formal request to the Senate to lift Kabila’s immunity. As a former head of state, Kabila holds the status of senator for life, which currently protects him from prosecution.
Authorities claim to have evidence implicating Kabila in “war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the massacres of civilians and soldiers,” particularly through alleged support for the M23 rebel group. M23 has been active in North Kivu, where its offensives have destabilized the region and displaced millions.
Joseph Kabila ruled the DRC from 2001 to 2019. He left the country in late 2023 and has been residing primarily in South Africa. Recently, he expressed a desire to return to the DRC and contribute to resolving the crisis in the east. He denies all allegations leveled against him.
Source: africanews
