DR Congo: Kabila Allies Condemn Immunity Lift as Politically Motivated ‘Manhunt’

Edited by : Widad WAHBI

The party of former Congolese president Joseph Kabila has denounced the recent lifting of his parliamentary immunity as a “politically driven manhunt,” following accusations from Kinshasa linking him to alleged complicity with the M23 armed group.

On last Thursday evening, the Senate of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) voted overwhelmingly—88 in favor, 5 against—to remove Kabila’s immunity. The secret-ballot decision paves the way for possible legal proceedings before a military court.

Kabila, 53, ruled the vast Central African nation for 18 years, from 2001 to 2019. Since stepping down, he has retained the title of “senator for life,” along with the associated parliamentary protections. He reportedly left the DRC in late 2023 but is believed to maintain influence within the country.

The former president’s party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), accused the current government of exploiting judicial mechanisms for political gain. The party, which boycotted the December 2023 general elections, is no longer represented in Parliament.

Given President Félix Tshisekedi’s coalition holds a commanding majority in both legislative chambers, the Senate’s vote did not come as a surprise. However, the move has reignited debate over the independence of the judiciary in the DRC—an institution long viewed with skepticism by civil society and opposition figures.

Kabila has not yet publicly responded to the decision, nor have formal charges been filed as of Friday.