Former Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila has broken his silence with a 10-point indictment of current leader Félix Tshisekedi, amid a backdrop of rising tensions in the country. The indictment, which was released on October 11, 2026, is a scathing critique of Tshisekedi's leadership, accusing him of authoritarian drift, tribalism, and nepotism. Kabila's statement has sparked concerns in Kinshasa, where the government is already grappling with a range of challenges, including a conflict in the East and allegations of human rights abuses.
Kabila's indictment is a significant development, given his history with the country. He ruled the DRC for 18 years, but his term in office was marked by controversy, including allegations of corruption and authoritarianism. In September 2025, he was sentenced to death in absentia for treason by the High Military Court. Despite this, Kabila has positioned himself as a champion of national unity and stability, launching a movement called "Sauvons le Congo" (Save the Congo) to promote his vision for the country.
The indictment highlights several key concerns, including the government's handling of the conflict in the East, which has been ongoing for years. Kabila accuses the government of pursuing a conflict it cannot win, and of collaborating with armed groups, including the FDLR and Wazalendo. He also alleges widespread human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests, detention of soldiers and opposition figures, and pressure on journalists and activists.
Kabila's statement also touches on the issue of constitutional reform, which has been a contentious topic in the DRC. He opposes any amendment to the constitution, which he says would tear up the "republican pact" born of the Sun City dialogue. This stance is likely to resonate with some sections of the population, who are wary of attempts to extend the president's term in office.
The timing of Kabila's statement is also significant, given the ongoing efforts by African Union facilitators to broker a peace deal in the country. The facilitators have already met with Tshisekedi and other stakeholders, and are seeking to find a solution to the country's many challenges. Kabila's statement is likely to complicate these efforts, and raises questions about his own role in the country's future.
One of the key features of Kabila's statement is his decision not to mention Tshisekedi's name, despite the many criticisms he levels at the president. This suggests that Kabila is seeking to position himself as a national leader, rather than a partisan opponent. He also ends his statement with a promise to unveil his vision for rescuing the country "in the coming hours, days, or weeks."
The reaction of the Kinshasa government to Kabila's statement remains to be seen. However, it is clear that his return to the stage has significant implications for the country's politics. The government will have to navigate a complex landscape, balancing the need to address Kabila's criticisms with the risk of appearing to legitimize his claims.
Key points
- Kabila's indictment of Tshisekedi highlights concerns about authoritarian drift and human rights abuses in the DRC.
- The timing of Kabila's statement complicates ongoing efforts by African Union facilitators to broker a peace deal in the country.
- Kabila's decision not to mention Tshisekedi's name suggests that he is seeking to position himself as a national leader.
