Joseph Kabila, former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, made a controversial return on Thursday by appearing publicly in Goma, a city under the control of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. This is his first known visit to rebel-occupied territory since fleeing the country in 2023 amid war crimes allegations.
Kabila, who ruled the mineral-rich country for nearly two decades, is accused by Kinshasa of supporting the ongoing insurgency in the east. The government alleges that Kabila’s inner circle is linked to massacres of civilians and illegal arms funding. His political party has been suspended, and its leaders face asset seizures.
Despite the accusations, Kabila met with religious leaders behind closed doors. He reportedly said he returned to find “peace,” but did not speak publicly.
Kinshasa Accuses Kabila of Backing M23 Rebels
The Congolese government has accused Joseph Kabila of “positioning himself as a rebel leader” alongside Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Officials claim the former president is working to undermine national unity by aligning with M23 rebels, who have taken more ground in 2025 than in any other year.
His reappearance could derail ongoing peace efforts brokered by the United States, where Trump adviser Massad Boulos is pursuing a mineral-backed truce deal between Congo and Rwanda. The U.S. had planned for both countries to sign a peace agreement this summer, which now appears uncertain.
Kabila’s presence in Goma with no clear invitation from Kinshasa and amid security breakdown raises concerns about legitimacy, backdoor diplomacy, and renewed regional instability.
Kabila’s Return Fuels Political Crisis in Congo
Although Kabila did not address reporters, a religious leader who met with him stated, “The former president wants peace to return to eastern Congo.” However, this move is seen by many as political theater, with no transparency, especially as journalists were banned from filming the talks.
Meanwhile, Kinshasa officials remain silent about any steps to arrest him, even though he is wanted over alleged crimes against humanity.
The question remains — how can a former leader accused of supporting armed rebellion walk freely into a rebel zone and host dialogue sessions, while the state watches?
Kabila Appears in M23 Territory Amid War Crimes Allegations
Kabila’s appearance in M23 territory amid war crimes allegations has added fuel to Congo’s already volatile political climate. While he claims he seeks peace, the context and location of his re-emergence suggest otherwise. His unannounced return, his proximity to armed rebels, and the silence from Congolese authorities send a disturbing signal about the blurred lines between rebellion and politics in Africa’s most unstable conflict zone.
