Source: Okay Africa
Bu Lihle Z. Mishali
Former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo Joseph Kabila gestures during a meeting with traditional leaders at one of his residences in Goma on May 30, 2025.
Photo by Jospin Mwisha/AFP via Getty Images
Every day, OkayAfrica shares a roundup of news we’re following but haven’t published as full articles. These short updates cover what’s happening on the continent — in culture, politics, and beyond. For more on stories like these, be sure to check out our News page, with stories from across the regions.
Kabila Treason Trial Begins in DRC as Accusations of Rebel Ties Mount
Former Democratic Republic of Congo president Joseph Kabila is on trial for treason and other serious charges, including murder and supporting the M23 rebel group. The military court proceedings began today, Friday, July 25, in Kinshasa without Kabila present. He has dismissed the charges as politically motivated and accused the government of using the courts to silence opposition. The trial follows the lifting of his senatorial immunity in May and his return from self-imposed exile to Goma, a city now under rebel control.
President Félix Tshisekedi has accused Kabila of backing M23 rebels who control large parts of eastern DRC. While a ceasefire was signed last week, fighting continues. The government’s critics say the peace deal is too lenient, while Kabila’s prosecution is too aggressive. His allies argue the case is a ploy to push him out of national politics. Kabila led the country for 18 years before handing over to Tshisekedi in 2019 following a disputed election.
