Former President Joseph Kabila's treason trial has kicked off in a military court in Kinshasa, DR Congo. Charged with treason, murder, and other crimes related to supporting the M23 rebels—who control parts of the mineral wealth in eastern DR Congo—Kabila has denied all accusations and refused to attend the hearing. His successor, President Félix Tshisekedi, alleges Kabila orchestrated the rebel activities. Kabila has labeled the proceedings as "arbitrary," claiming that the judicial system is being manipulated for political oppression.
Despite a ceasefire agreement announced last week, violence persists in the region. Kabila, who was outside the country for two years, returned in May but from his exile in South Africa to rebel-held Goma. The trial comes after the Congolese legislature revoked Kabila's immunity as a senator for life to face serious charges, including treason and inciting rebellion.
Having ruled for 18 years since the assassination of his father, Kabila stepped down in 2019 after a contested election. He has since criticized the current government as a "dictatorship" in a now-deleted YouTube video, while government officials dismiss his claims, asserting he has nothing to contribute. Kabila’s ally suggested the trial is politically motivated, criticizing the government for its inconsistent approach to peace and justice in the conflict.
Despite a ceasefire agreement announced last week, violence persists in the region. Kabila, who was outside the country for two years, returned in May but from his exile in South Africa to rebel-held Goma. The trial comes after the Congolese legislature revoked Kabila's immunity as a senator for life to face serious charges, including treason and inciting rebellion.
Having ruled for 18 years since the assassination of his father, Kabila stepped down in 2019 after a contested election. He has since criticized the current government as a "dictatorship" in a now-deleted YouTube video, while government officials dismiss his claims, asserting he has nothing to contribute. Kabila’s ally suggested the trial is politically motivated, criticizing the government for its inconsistent approach to peace and justice in the conflict.
