Former Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) president Joseph Kabila has lashed out at the government of his successor, Félix Tshisekedi, calling it a “dictatorship” after his immunity from prosecution was lifted. The Senate had removed Kabila’s immunity on Thursday, paving the way for him to be charged with treason and war crimes.
Kabila, who was in power between 2001 and 2019, claimed that he had spoken out because he felt the country’s unity was at risk. He set out a 12-point plan to address decades of insecurity in the mineral-rich east of DR Congo but stopped short of calling for his own arrest.
Analysts warn that any trial of Kabila could further destabilize the country, which has been battling the M23 rebellion since 2012. The government has not commented on Kabila’s speech, which was live-streamed on YouTube and criticized its handling of the economy, corruption, and public debt.
Kabila, a former general, also urged the withdrawal of foreign troops from DR Congo, citing Rwanda’s presence as an existential threat. He called for improved economic governance, democracy, and social reform to restore peace and stability in the country.
A peace deal between DR Congo and Rwanda may be on the horizon, with both countries signing a preliminary agreement last month. The two nations have agreed on a pathway to peace, but the road ahead remains uncertain.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2j7d9nkgzo