Congo Senate Votes to Lift Immunity of Former President Joseph Kabila

 

Congo Senate Votes to Lift Immunity of Former President Joseph Kabila In a late-night vote on Thursday, Congo’s Senate overwhelmingly approved lifting former President Joseph Kabila’s immunity from prosecution amid accusations of support for the M23 rebel group. The vote was 88 in favor to 5 against, conducted through a secret ballot. Kabila is wanted by Congolese authorities for alleged crimes against humanity related to his purported support for armed insurgents in eastern Congo, including involvement in civilian massacres. In response, Congo has moved to suspend his political party and seize the assets of its leaders. Kabila, who denies any ties to the rebels, stepped down in 2018 after nearly two decades in power amid widespread protests and has been largely out of the country since late 2023, mainly residing in South Africa.

The move to remove his immunity has raised concerns about his potential return to Congo, where he has publicly expressed intentions to help resolve the ongoing crisis in the east. The region remains a strategic and resource-rich area, with vital minerals that the United States and Western powers are eager to access. Washington is actively promoting a peace agreement and mineral deals aimed at stabilizing the region and attracting significant international investment. Kabila ascended to power in 2001 following his father’s assassination, but his refusal to step down after his term ended in 2016 led to violent protests. He ultimately agreed to leave office after the 2018 elections.

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