Former President Joseph Kabila resurfaced in the rebel-controlled city of Goma on Thursday (29 May), drawing both hope and controversy as violence continues to escalate in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Kabila’s visit — his first public appearance since returning from exile — comes shortly after the Congolese Senate lifted his parliamentary immunity, opening the door to potential prosecution for alleged support of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The government of President Félix Tshisekedi accuses Kabila of orchestrating the insurgency, a charge he fiercely denies. While Kabila made no public remarks, he met with religious leaders in Goma, a symbolic move amid calls for him to mediate the conflict. “For 18 years, he built so much that we cannot ignore,” said Bishop Joël Amurani. “We told him to play the role of arbiter so that peace would return.”
Reactions on the ground were mixed. Some locals welcomed his involvement, citing his deep knowledge of Congolese issues. Others questioned his credibility, recalling his turbulent presidency. Kabila’s presence in M23 territory, alongside the rebel group’s spokesperson, has raised alarms in Kinshasa and among international observers, potentially complicating peace negotiations. The ruling party has gone as far as questioning his nationality, branding him a “Rwandan” outsider and demanding he stay out of national affairs. Kabila’s reemergence now threatens to deepen divisions in an already fragile political landscape.