Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila, accused by Kinshasa of supporting M23 rebels, has made a notable return to the Democratic Republic of Congo via Kigali, Rwanda, entering discreetly into Goma, a city under the control of the M23 rebels who, according to the UN and various international actors, are backed by Rwanda. His arrival on Friday, April 18, through the “Grande Barrière” border post linking Rwanda’s Gisenyi to Goma, has prompted numerous questions regarding Rwanda’s involvement.
The discreet presence of Kabila in a region occupied by the M23 and widely regarded as under Rwandan influence has intensified speculation. Analysts suggest this return could potentially relieve some international pressure on Rwanda, accused of violating Congolese sovereignty, while indirectly justifying the recent military setbacks faced by the Congolese army (FARDC) against the rebels. Concerns have arisen about the long-standing possible complicity between Kabila, loyalists within the Congolese security forces, and the M23, particularly since the creation of the AFC with Corneille Nangaa.
Having governed the DRC for 18 years, Kabila previously oversaw the national security forces currently struggling to halt the rebel advances, raising further questions about how long he may have been involved, and if internal support facilitated the recent successes of the M23.
Kabila plans to address the nation soon to clarify his intentions regarding the current crisis. However, the motivations behind his return remain uncertain, especially considering his significant regional political influence and ties with leaders of SADC countries, which have supported President Félix Tshisekedi amid the ongoing eastern security crisis.
Kabila’s return coincides with heightened domestic tensions, exemplified by recent raids conducted by Congolese authorities on his properties in Kinshasa. His wife, Marie Olive Lembe, condemned these actions, describing them as looting, further exacerbating internal political tensions.
Amidst this uncertainty, everybody is closely monitoring developments and their potential impact on ongoing negotiations mediated by Qatar between Congolese authorities and the M23 rebels.
Therwandan
