Former President Joseph Kabila of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has vehemently criticized the current administration, labeling it a "dictatorship" in a lengthy YouTube address delivered live from an undisclosed location. His remarks came just a day after the Senate lifted his immunity, allowing for potential treason and war crimes charges linked to his alleged support for the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels.
Kabila Declares Government a "Dictatorship" Following Immunity Removal
Kabila Declares Government a "Dictatorship" Following Immunity Removal
Ex-Democratic Republic of Congo president Joseph Kabila accuses the government of oppression after treason and war crimes charges loom.
Kabila's term lasted from 2001 to 2019, and he has mostly shied away from public discourse, not delivering a formal address to the nation in six years. In the address, Kabila expressed concern for the nation’s unity, stating he chose to speak out because the country was "on the verge of implosion." He proposed a twelve-point plan aimed at restoring security and criticized the government for its "arbitrary decisions" following rumors of his travel intentions. Kabila pledged to visit Goma, a city controlled by M23, indicating he does not fear arrest there.
Once an ally of current President Félix Tshisekedi, accountability in the justice system and government neglect have also been focal points of Kabila’s allegations. He claimed the government had not only failed to manage public debt and corruption but had also undermined the effectiveness of the national army by allowing foreign troops and militias to fill security gaps.
His accusations were aimed at prompting the withdrawal of foreign forces, including those from Rwanda, amidst ongoing conflicts that have internally displaced hundreds of thousands. Kabila's speech, while denouncing the current regime's failures, also highlighted some criticisms shared by analysts, who noted the irony in his claims reflecting the previous lapses of his own presidency. The situation remains tense as DRC and Rwanda make tentative moves toward peace after signing a preliminary agreement to address the current crises.
Once an ally of current President Félix Tshisekedi, accountability in the justice system and government neglect have also been focal points of Kabila’s allegations. He claimed the government had not only failed to manage public debt and corruption but had also undermined the effectiveness of the national army by allowing foreign troops and militias to fill security gaps.
His accusations were aimed at prompting the withdrawal of foreign forces, including those from Rwanda, amidst ongoing conflicts that have internally displaced hundreds of thousands. Kabila's speech, while denouncing the current regime's failures, also highlighted some criticisms shared by analysts, who noted the irony in his claims reflecting the previous lapses of his own presidency. The situation remains tense as DRC and Rwanda make tentative moves toward peace after signing a preliminary agreement to address the current crises.
