Joseph Kabila of Congo is consulting with opposition leaders amid a resurgence of M23 rebels threatening government control. His critiques of current President Tshisekedi and the deteriorating relationship between them could herald a political shake-up. Tensions escalate as Kabila’s past aligns with the current turmoil, raising issues of governance and constitutional integrity.
Former President Joseph Kabila of Congo has embarked on discussions with opposition leaders regarding the nation’s political future amidst a backdrop of territorial gains by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. These talks present a potential challenge to the current governance of President Felix Tshisekedi, particularly due to his controversial response to the crisis, enhancing political tensions.
Kabila and Tshisekedi previously engaged in a power-sharing arrangement following the contested 2018 elections; however, their relationship has deteriorated significantly. Kabila has accused Tshisekedi of obstructing reforms and sponsoring the M23 insurgency that threatens eastern cities, notably Bukavu.
In a recent op-ed, Kabila condemned Tshisekedi’s actions that he claims violate the constitution and risk plunging the nation into civil conflict. While Kabila’s direct comments have been sparse, sources indicate his private conversations convey that “the Tshisekedi regime is soon over,” highlighting mounting discontent against the current administration.
The nature of these discussions remains largely confidential, although Kabila has previously met with opposition figures like Moise Katumbi and Claudel Lubaya. Critiques of Tshisekedi’s governance continue to emerge, with Lubaya expressing concern that the president prioritizes power retention over tangible solutions for Congo’s difficulties.
Kabila has publicly called for an inclusive peace process, albeit with ambiguous objectives. Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, a leader within Kabila’s party, expressed the desire to exclude Tshisekedi from future political discussions while underscoring the necessity of adhering to constitutional protocols.
Amidst concerns over Kabila, the Tshisekedi administration remains vigilant. Security forces recently intercepted a boat owned by Kabila on Lake Tanganyika, suspecting it might transport arms to M23-aligned forces, a claim Kabila’s representatives contest for lack of evidence.
Analysis of the current crisis points to striking parallels with the tumultuous period of 2001, when Kabila first took office following his father’s assassination. Observers, like former chief of staff Nehemie Mwilanya Wilondja, argue that Kabila navigated crises more adeptly at a young age compared to Tshisekedi’s governance, raising questions about accountability for Congo’s plight.
The ongoing political discussions between former President Kabila and opposition leaders suggest a destabilizing shift in Congo’s political landscape. As the M23 insurgency threatens key cities, the divergent paths of Kabila and Tshisekedi expose deep societal faults and governance challenges. Kabila’s intentions seem focused on regaining political influence and addressing the crisis, while Tshisekedi’s administration is faced with increasing scrutiny and pressure to respond effectively.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
