Joseph Kabila returns to Congo amid rebel tensions

In early April 2025, Joseph Kabila, the former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, returned to the country after two years of self-imposed exile in South Africa. He arrived in Goma, a city currently held by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, which has made significant territorial gains in recent months. His return has heightened political tensions, particularly as he has been accused of having ties with these rebels by the Congolese government under President Felix Tshisekedi. The M23 has seized control of key areas in eastern Congo, including Goma and Bukavu, resulting in thousands of casualties and substantial displacement among the local population. Kabila's aides indicated that he was in Goma to participate in peace efforts aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict affecting the region, stressing the need for Congolese voices in discussions about the country's future. This unexpected re-emergence of Kabila could complicate existing ceasefire negotiations and increase politically charged accusations against him, especially given growing fears that his presence may ignite further discord between the government and various factions involved in the escalated conflict, including the M23. Political analysts suggest that Kabila's arrival could serve to intensify claims of his alleged collaboration with the M23 and spark significant ramifications on the current political landscape of the Congo, where the quest for stability continues to be plagued by the deep-rooted conflict fueled by competing interests and external influences.