DR Congo confiscates assets of ex-leader
(MENAFN) The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) has seized the assets of former President Joseph Kabila and banned his political party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), accusing him of supporting M23 rebels. These rebels have gained control of significant territory in the country’s volatile eastern regions.
Kabila, who had spent the past two years in South Africa, recently returned to DR Congo. The 53-year-old had stepped down from power in 2019 following widespread protests. He first assumed leadership in 2001 after the assassination of his father, President Laurent-Desire Kabila.
Reports indicate that Kabila arrived in Goma, a city taken by the rebels earlier in January, during intense fighting between the rebels and government forces. Although Kabila has expressed his desire to help end the conflict, his return has drawn criticism from the government. The Interior Ministry accused him of intentionally choosing to re-enter the country through rebel-controlled Goma, which reportedly ensured his safety.
The government also condemned Kabila and his party for their failure to denounce the M23 rebels’ aggression, labeling it a betrayal. Consequently, the PPRD’s activities have been suspended nationwide.
Furthermore, the Justice Ministry ordered the seizure of all assets belonging to Kabila, both movable and immovable. Legal action has been initiated against Kabila for his alleged involvement in supporting Rwanda’s role in the conflict, particularly through backing the M23 group. The government has also imposed movement restrictions on Kabila’s associates involved in this case of high treason.
The M23 rebels have captured key cities in the mineral-rich eastern region of DR Congo, exacerbating the ongoing conflict. The government has accused Rwanda of supporting the rebels, although Rwanda denies these claims. The government’s actions against Kabila come amid delays in peace negotiations between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels.
Kabila has yet to respond to the allegations, but his spokesperson, Barbara Nzimbi, stated that he would address the nation soon. The PPRD’s secretary, Ferdinand Kambere, has condemned the suspension, calling it a violation of the DR Congo’s constitution.
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