DRC Senate Lifts Former President Kabila Immunity Over Rebel Links

The Senate of the Democratic Republic of the Congo overwhelmingly voted to lift former President Joseph Kabila's lifetime immunity, allowing for his prosecution on charges including treason, war crimes, and crimes against humanity linked to alleged support for the M23 rebel group in the eastern part of the country. Kabila, who has denied these accusations and called the justice system a tool of political oppression, remains in self-imposed exile since 2023 but has expressed intentions to return to help resolve the ongoing conflict. The decision to strip his immunity, supported by 88 out of 96 votes, also coincides with moves by the government to suspend his former party and seize assets of its leaders. Kabila criticized the government for arbitrary and politically motivated actions and reaffirmed his commitment to Congo's sovereignty and territorial integrity. His return could complicate efforts to negotiate peace in the resource-rich eastern region, where the U.S. is pushing for agreements involving Rwanda and investment in minerals. The prosecution move has been described by some of Kabila's allies as a political distraction amid broader national challenges.