Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila Emerges in Goma Amid Escalating Tensions
In a move that has sent shockwaves across the Democratic Republic of Congo, former President Joseph Kabila made his first public appearance in Goma last Thursday, sparking a mixture of hope and skepticism among residents. Kabila, who ruled the country from 2001 to 2019, met with local religious leaders in the rebel-held city, fueling speculation about his growing involvement in the region’s search for peace.
Despite being accused by the government of backing the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, Kabila has been called upon by religious leaders to play a mediating role in the conflict. Bishop Joël Amurani, who attended the meeting, emphasized Kabila’s potential to bring peace to the region, citing his 18-year tenure as president and the infrastructure he built during that time. "For 18 years, he built so much that we cannot ignore," Amurani said. "This same state still exists for him to get involved so that peace can return."
However, not everyone is convinced that Kabila’s return is a positive development. Goma residents are divided in their opinions, with some welcoming his presence and others expressing skepticism. Amani Safari, a local gas seller, believes that Kabila’s arrival is a good thing, saying, "For us to have peace, we must go through him because he has a very good grasp of the problems the Congolese face." On the other hand, Alexis Bauma is less optimistic, stating, "I don’t think Kabila can end the war. He was president of this country a long time ago, but he didn’t succeed."
Kabila’s reappearance comes at a time when the Congolese Senate has voted to lift his immunity, paving the way for potential prosecution on charges of treason and war crimes. The former president has dismissed these accusations as politically motivated, and in a recent statement, he accused the current government of turning into a dictatorship backed by parliament.
The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains volatile, with clashes between the army and the M23 rebel group continuing in South Kivu province despite a recent commitment to a truce. President Félix Tshisekedi’s government has repeatedly alleged that Kabila is supporting the M23, which has taken control of key cities in the east. Kabila has denied any links to the group, but his political legacy remains divisive, and his latest moves may deepen the divide.
As the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to escalate, the international community is watching Kabila’s next moves with great interest. Will he be able to bring peace to the region, or will his involvement exacerbate the tensions? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the fate of the Democratic Republic of Congo hangs in the balance, and the world is waiting with bated breath to see what the future holds.