Congo’s Former President Engages in Political Negotiations Amid Rebellion

Former President of Congo, Joseph Kabila, is engaging in talks with opposition figures and civil society as M23 rebels advance in the eastern region. The discussions indicate a potential challenge to President Felix Tshisekedi, who faces criticism over his response to the insurgency. Although Kabila has alluded to a political transition, details remain unclear. Concerns about Kabila’s influence and intentions persist among current government officials.

Joseph Kabila, the former President of Congo, has commenced discussions with opposition leaders regarding the nation’s political future amidst territorial gains by Rwanda-backed rebels in the east. These talks, according to five sources acquainted with the situation, also involve civil society members. This emerging dialogue presents a significant challenge to the current President, Felix Tshisekedi, who is facing criticism for his handling of the advancing M23 rebels.

Previously, Kabila and Tshisekedi held a power-sharing agreement following the contentious 2018 election, but relations have deteriorated as Tshisekedi has sought to undermine Kabila’s influence, attributing accusations of obstructing necessary reforms to him. The situation escalated when Tshisekedi publicly claimed Kabila’s sponsorship of the M23 insurgency during the Munich Security Conference, to which Kabila initially refrained from responding until he published an op-ed alleging Tshisekedi’s constitutional violations and human rights abuses.

Sources assert that Kabila has expressed a belief that the “Tshisekedi regime is soon over,” although there is uncertainty regarding specific plans for a political transition. Kabila’s recent dialogues have remained confidential, though he has met publicly with opposition figures such as Moise Katumbi and Claudel Lubaya, both critical of Tshisekedi. Lubaya remarked that the current political climate appears dire, with Tshisekedi more focused on maintaining power than on resolving issues.

In an interview, Kabila emphasized the need for an inclusive peace process yet remained ambiguous about his aspirations, saying the true intentions lie in serving the country. Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, a leading member of Kabila’s party, expressed support for political discourse excluding Tshisekedi while underscoring the importance of adhering to the constitution. Tshisekedi announced an intention to create a unity government, although implementation timelines are unclear.

Tshisekedi’s administration is cautious regarding Kabila’s actions; security sources indicated a Kabila-controlled vessel was seized under allegations of potential arms transportation to groups aligned with M23. However, Mwilanya, a former aide to Kabila, contested these claims, indicating there is no substantiated evidence. Reports of Rwandan involvement with M23 have been rebuffed by Rwanda, which cites self-defense against Hutu militias as justification for its actions. Mwilanya compared the present crisis to Kabila’s assumption of power in 2001, suggesting Kabila managed former threats with greater adeptness than Tshisekedi has demonstrated.

In summary, Joseph Kabila’s renewed engagement with opposition parties amidst rising rebel activities signals a pivotal moment in Congo’s political landscape. The diminishing trust between Kabila and Tshisekedi, alongside growing discontent over the government’s handling of national security, has created a volatile environment. As discussions about a possible political transition in the country continue, the focus remains on how these interactions might influence Congo’s stability and governance moving forward.

Original Source: www.usnews.com