Former DRC President Joseph Kabila’s allies are summoned by the military prosecutor amid escalating tensions over M23 rebels’ advancements. Kabila’s party members deny allegations of connections with armed groups, emphasizing their commitment to national interests despite accusations from President Tshisekedi. Rwanda is also involved, denying support for M23, citing self-defense as its rationale for military actions.
Officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo’s former President Joseph Kabila’s party will be questioned by a military prosecutor on Monday, reflecting rising political tensions due to advances by Rwanda-backed rebels in eastern Congo. The reasons for these invitations remain unclear, as stated by Jean Mbuyu, a lawyer for the officials. President Felix Tshisekedi has accused Kabila of funding the M23 rebels, who have gained control over two major cities since January 2023.
In response to Tshisekedi’s allegations and criticism over his handling of the situation, Kabila has opened discussions with opposition politicians and civil society leaders regarding the nation’s political future. The military prosecutor’s office extended about 10 invitations to Kabila’s People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy, with only three representatives, including party Vice President Aubin Minaku and former Interior Minister Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, expected to attend the questioning in Kinshasa.
Minaku emphasized that they are participating to “avoid any suspicion” and denied any association with the M23 or other armed factions. He clarified that their approach is aligned with national loyalty, asserting their denunciation of any unlawful foreign military presence. The M23’s resurgence marks a significant increment in a longstanding conflict linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the competition for Congo’s abundant mineral resources.
Rwanda denies allegations of supplying the M23 with arms or troops, asserting that its military actions are defensive against threats from the Congolese army and militias antagonistic to Kigali.
The questioning of Joseph Kabila’s party officials by the military prosecutor signifies heightened political unease in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly concerning the actions of M23 rebels. The absence of clear reasons for the invitations has led to denials of wrongdoing from Kabila’s allies, who assert their commitment to national loyalty and adherence to legal norms amidst accusations from President Tshisekedi. This ongoing conflict remains significantly influenced by historical tensions and resource competition.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
