Former President Joseph Kabila has announced his return to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after more than a year living in South Africa, saying he intends to help address the escalating crisis in the country’s volatile eastern region.
Kabila, who led the nation from 2001 to 2019, said his homecoming is motivated by a desire to contribute to a resolution of the conflict that has displaced hundreds of thousands. However, his return could inject fresh uncertainty into an already fraught political landscape.
Current President Félix Tshisekedi, facing mounting pressure to end the violence, has accused Kabila of supporting the M23 rebel group — allegations Kabila’s allies strongly deny.
The M23 insurgency has been at the heart of renewed fighting in North Kivu, worsening an already dire humanitarian situation.
As Kabila prepares to re-enter the national stage, observers are divided on whether his presence will help stabilize the region or further inflame political tensions. His next steps are likely to be closely watched, both at home and abroad.