Joseph Kabila Faces Treason Charges as DR Congo Seeks to Seize Assets and Lift Immunity
KINSHASA – May 1, 2025:
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has launched legal proceedings to prosecute former President Joseph Kabila for treason and other serious crimes tied to ongoing rebel violence in the country’s troubled east.
Justice Minister Constant Mutamba confirmed that the state is pursuing the seizure of Kabila’s assets and is requesting the Senate to revoke his parliamentary immunity as a sitting senator. The charges include treason, supporting an armed rebellion, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
“This is a prosecution based on his current role as a senator, not as a former head of state,” said Mutamba, emphasizing the urgency of lifting Kabila’s immunity.
Alleged Ties to Rebel Movement
Kabila is accused of backing the M23/AFC rebel alliance that has taken over significant areas in eastern DRC, including the strategic city of Goma. Authorities say Kabila is a key political supporter of Corneille Nangaa, the former electoral chief who now leads the AFC’s political wing.
His recent visit to rebel-held Goma has only intensified speculation that he is trying to regain political control with support from insurgent factions.
Rising Regional Tensions
Kabila’s resurgence has stirred strong reactions. Uganda’s military leader and presidential advisor, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, publicly warned against any plans by Kabila to return to power.
“Joseph Kabila will never be President of DRC again. That’s not happening,” Kainerugaba declared, also accusing Kabila of harboring extremists during his presidency.
Legal Battle and Political Fallout
The Justice Ministry’s move marks an unprecedented effort to hold a former Congolese president accountable through criminal charges. If immunity is lifted, Kabila could face prosecution and asset forfeiture — consequences already hitting other figures linked to M23.
Analysts caution that such actions may trigger backlash from Kabila loyalists, potentially destabilizing the fragile political landscape. Still, supporters say it’s a critical step toward ending impunity and restoring justice.
Peace Talks and Broader Impact
The charges against Kabila follow recent peace negotiations in Doha between President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame. The DRC government views its crackdown on rebel collaborators as aligning with wider regional efforts to restore peace and protect national sovereignty.
As eastern Congo continues to reel from years of conflict, the Kabila case may prove a defining moment for accountability and reform in the country.
