Joseph Kabila visited Goma, a region controlled by rebels, after years in South Africa.
Former DRC President Joseph Kabila made an unexpected appearance in Goma, setting foot in M23-held zones after a long stay in South Africa. Without addressing the press, Kabila visited religious leaders in a tense, heavily armed area, stirring speculation about his real mission.
Though he wore his usual grey jacket and blue shirt like a statesman, his silence was louder than words. Local leaders said the visit was about “peace discussions,” but suspicions around his agenda remain high.
Kabila is currently wanted by the Congolese government, facing accusations linked to violent uprisings in the east. His party is already suspended, and efforts to take over assets tied to his allies are ongoing.
Still, Kabila is holding what his team calls “security consultative sessions” in Kinyogote, an area close to rebel command posts — a move many see as a bold political strategy.
Fears of a Power Shift as U.S. Watches Closely
Top officials under President Felix Tshisekedi believe Kabila is trying to come back into power from the shadows, possibly with Rwandan support.
Reports suggest he might be working alongside President of Rwanda which would worsen the already tense Congo-Rwanda relationship. Kigali, however, continues to deny any links to rebel groups in the region.
Kabila’s return also comes as the U.S. pushes for a peace deal between the two nations. A Trump adviser, Massad Boulos, recently revealed that an agreement involving mineral trade could be signed in the coming months.
Now, with M23 rebels gaining more ground than ever before, and Western powers blaming Rwanda for arming the group, Kabila’s presence adds a dangerous twist to an already fragile peace effort.
Whether he wants to rebuild his influence or act as a peacemaker, Kabila’s visit to rebel territory has rattled both local and international leaders.
