The Democratic Republic of Congo has banned the party of former President Joseph Kabila, accusing him of links to the M23 rebel group that has seized large parts of eastern DR Congo.
The ban comes amid reports that Kabila has returned to the country after spending two years in South Africa.
The interior ministry stated that all activities of Kabila’s PPRD party have been banned due to its “ambiguous attitude” towards the occupation of Congolese territory by the M23.
The government has also accused Kabila of high treason and ordered the seizure of his property.
Kabila has previously denied any links to the M23 rebels and has not commented on the latest moves by the Congolese government.
However, he did announce his intention to return to the country, citing a desire to help resolve the worsening institutional and security crisis in DR Congo.
The move highlights the complex and tense political landscape in DR Congo, where Kabila’s legacy and influence continue to shape the country’s politics.
Kabila led DR Congo for 18 years, and his party remains a significant force in the country’s politics.
The ban on his party is seen as a major escalation in the government’s efforts to crack down on perceived threats to national security.
