Allies of former President Joseph Kabila were questioned by a military prosecutor in DRC amid rising tensions due to Rwandan-backed rebel activity. The officials addressed comments made regarding their political readiness while denying any involvement with rebel factions. Kabila’s outreach to opposition figures signifies ongoing political complexities as military actions escalate in the east of Congo.
In Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, allies of former President Joseph Kabila were questioned by a military prosecutor amid growing political tensions linked to Rwandan-backed rebel advances in the eastern region. The specific reasons for their summoning remain unclear according to Jean Mbuyu, a lawyer representing the officials and former security adviser to Kabila. Upon exiting the prosecutor’s office, one party official indicated the inquiry was related to statements made by Aubin Minaku, the party’s vice president.
Minaku had previously remarked, “The chief said ‘we must be ready for anything’,” referencing Kabila’s call for party readiness, suggesting a shift from silence to more overt political action. Despite their presence at the prosecutor’s office, the officials faced no charges, as noted by legal representative Marcel Bombamba.
President Felix Tshisekedi has accused Kabila of supporting the M23 rebels amidst ongoing military assaults that have seized control of eastern Congo cities since January. In the face of this conflict, Kabila has sought dialogue with opposition and civil society leaders, responding to critiques surrounding Tshisekedi’s handling of the situation.
The military prosecutor’s office issued approximately ten invitations to Kabila’s People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy; however, only three members attended questioning in Kinshasa: Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, a former interior minister, and Ferdinand Kambare, the party’s national executive secretary. Minaku reiterated the officials’ decision to appear aimed to dispel any doubts regarding their integrity, denying connections to M23 or other armed factions.
Minaku asserted, “We are taking a purely republican approach, not one of rebellion,” emphasizing their allegiance to the nation while denouncing the presence of foreign forces. The escalating M23 offensive marks a significant intensification of a protracted conflict worsened by the historical context of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the ongoing battle for Congo’s mineral wealth. Rwandan authorities have denied allegations of providing military support to M23, claiming their actions are defensive against the Congolese army and hostile militias.
The questioning of Kabila’s allies reflects significant political tension in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly concerning allegations of rebel support and the broader implications of foreign involvement in ongoing conflicts. The responses from Kabila’s party officials highlight their intent to maintain loyalty to national sovereignty while distancing themselves from armed groups. Overall, the situation underscores the complex interplay of local and regional dynamics within the context of Congo’s enduring instability.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
