Former President Joseph Kabila’s allies faced questioning by a military prosecutor amidst rising political tensions linked to Rwanda-backed rebels. The questioning was partially related to comments made by party vice president Aubin Minaku. While Kabila has been accused of supporting the M23 rebels, his associates denied any links and emphasized a commitment to maintaining national loyalty.
In Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo’s former President Joseph Kabila’s allies faced questioning by a military prosecutor due to escalating political tensions linked to advances by Rwanda-backed rebels in the eastern region. The specific reasons for their appearances remain unclear, according to Jean Mbuyu, the lawyer representing these officials, who previously served as a security advisor to Kabila.
After exiting the prosecutor’s office, one official disclosed that their invitation was connected to comments made by Aubin Minaku, the vice president of Kabila’s party. Minaku stated, “The chief said ‘we must be ready for anything’,” implying a shift from silence to open actions. Marcel Bombamba, another attorney, affirmed that no charges were filed against them following the questioning.
President Felix Tshisekedi has publicly accused Kabila of supporting the M23 rebels, who have taken control of significant urban areas in eastern Congo. In response to Tshisekedi’s criticism regarding the military situation, Kabila has been reaching out to opposition figures and civil society for discussions about the country’s political direction.
The military prosecutor’s office had sent invitations to approximately ten members of Kabila’s political party, although only three appeared in Kinshasa. Those present included Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, a former presidential candidate, and Ferdinand Kambare, the party’s national executive secretary. Minaku insisted on their attendance to “avoid any suspicion” and denied any connection to the M23 or similar armed groups.
He emphasized their commitment to a republican approach rather than rebellion, stating, “We clearly denounced any illicit presence of foreign forces.” The current advance of the M23 marks a serious escalation in a longstanding conflict, which has roots in Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and the ongoing struggle for control over Congo’s abundant mineral resources. While Rwanda disputes allegations of its involvement, it maintains that its actions are purely defensive against threats from the Congolese military and opposing militias.
The questioning of Kabila’s associates reflects the increasing political tensions in the DRC, particularly surrounding the recent activities of Rwanda-backed rebels. The implications of these developments could influence the future political landscape, especially in light of accusations from President Tshisekedi against Kabila. The interactions between former officials and the military prosecutor signify a notable moment in the country’s political discourse, underscoring the complexities of regional conflicts and governance.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
