Joseph Kabila Criticizes Government After Immunity Lifted for Treason Charges

In a bold 45-minute YouTube address, Joseph Kabila, the ex-president of the Democratic Republic of Congo, criticized the government of President Félix Tshisekedi, declaring it a "dictatorship." His remarks came just a day after the Senate moved to lift his immunity regarding potential treason and war crimes charges linked to the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. Kabila, who served as president from 2001 to 2019, communicated concerns over the nation's unity and laid out a 12-point plan to restore stability in the mineral-rich eastern region. He denounced recent government actions against his party and assets and accused the Tshisekedi administration of undermining democracy and mismanaging the economy and security situation. Kabila's speech also included a call for the removal of foreign troops from the country amid ongoing conflict.

Kabila's critiques of the current government echoed criticisms he faced during his own tenure, prompting mixed reactions to his address. As DR Congo and Rwanda inch towards a tentative peace deal to address ongoing violence, Kabila urged the government to prioritize broader peace initiatives.

Joseph Kabila, the ex-president of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has lashed out at the government after the Senate lifted his immunity from prosecution, accusing it of being a "dictatorship."