Kabila faces prosecution as Congo lifts his immunity over treason charges
- Congo's senate voted overwhelmingly to lift former President Joseph Kabila's immunity, allowing for prosecution.
- Kabila is accused of treason and war crimes due to alleged support for the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo.
- The decision raises concerns about further destabilization in a country already struggling with ongoing conflict.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has recently taken a significant step regarding former President Joseph Kabila, who served from 2001 to 2019. The country’s senate voted overwhelmingly to lift Kabila’s parliamentary immunity, thus paving the way for his prosecution. The accusations against him include treason, war crimes, and crimes against humanity related to his alleged support of the M23 rebel group, which has been involved in ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. The military prosecutor requested this decision, citing substantial evidence against Kabila, including documents and testimonies linking him to the rebels. This decision follows a period of escalating tension in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebels have seized control of several towns and cities, further destabilizing the region. The fighting was intensified by Rwanda's support of the M23, a claim that has been substantiated by U.N. experts. The accusations against Kabila have drawn significant attention, especially since he has remained silent on these allegations despite previous denials of any involvement with the insurgents. After stepping down, Kabila was granted the title of