Former President Joseph Kabila’s party officials were questioned by a military prosecutor amidst rising tensions due to advances by Rwanda-backed rebels. The questioning followed comments made by Aubin Minaku, indicating a shift from silence to action within the party. Kabila faces accusations from President Tshisekedi of supporting the M23 rebels, complicating the political landscape as Kabila engages with opposition leaders.
In Kinshasa, officials from former President Joseph Kabila’s party faced questioning by a military prosecutor amid rising political tensions related to incursions by Rwanda-backed rebels in eastern Congo. Jean Mbuyu, a lawyer for the party officials, mentioned that the purpose of this invitation was unclear. However, after their questioning, an official revealed they were summoned in relation to comments made by party vice president Aubin Minaku on February 26, indicating a shift in their political stance.
Minaku remarked, “The chief said ‘we must be ready for anything,’” referring to Kabila, signaling a transition from silence to visible action among party members. Meanwhile, Marcel Bombamba, another lawyer for the group, confirmed that no charges had been laid against the officials. President Felix Tshisekedi accused Kabila of supporting the M23 rebels, who have seized control of key eastern cities since January, amplifying the political climate.
Recently, Kabila has engaged with opposition leaders and civil society in discussions about the political landscape, amidst criticisms aimed at Tshisekedi regarding his handling of the M23 uprising. Approximately ten invitation letters were sent to members of Kabila’s People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy, with three officials attending the inquiry: Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, and Ferdinand Kambare.
Minaku expressed that their cooperation was intended to eliminate any suspicion of wrongdoing, and he categorically denied any connections to the M23 or similar factions. He stated, “We are taking a purely republican approach, not one of rebellion,” emphasizing their commitment to the nation. The conflict involving M23 marks a significant escalation in a longstanding struggle tied to historical events and the competition for resources in Congo.
As for M23, Rwanda refuted allegations of supplying arms or troops, claiming that its military actions are merely defensive against threats posed by the Congolese army and militias.
The questioning of Kabila’s allies illustrates the escalating political tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly against the backdrop of insurgencies by Rwanda-backed groups. As political dialogue resumes between Kabila and opposition factions, accusations against Kabila heighten concerns regarding his alleged support for rebels. The environment remains fraught with complexities stemming from historical conflicts, underscoring the ongoing struggle for governance and resource control in the region.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
