Since his arrival in Goma, the former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Joseph Kabila, has been holding numerous discreet meetings, sparking questions about his current status and intentions. While Kinshasa now considers him an “ex-senator for life” following the lifting of his immunities, his actions seem to indicate a desire to maintain significant political influence, even to assert himself as an indispensable figure in the Congolese landscape.
According to consistent reports, Joseph Kabila is set to begin a series of consultations, receiving both senior figures from his political party, the Common Front for Congo (FCC) – whose activities have been suspended by the Congolese government – and unarmed opposition figures. These opposition members include representatives from Moïse Katumbi’s Ensemble pour la République, Martin Fayulu’s Ecidé, Matata Ponyo’s LGD, Claudel Lubaya’s UDA, and Delly Sesanga’s Envol. These meetings, though restricted, are officially aimed at “sharing his overall vision of the country’s situation, as outlined in the 12 points addressed in his national address last week, with political actors in the eastern part of the country.”
This initiative to disseminate his national address comes in a context where Joseph Kabila’s immunities have been lifted, a decision that has intensified the debate about his role and status. Despite this measure, the former head of state seems determined not to withdraw from the political scene. His meeting with leaders of the M23/AFC movement, even if limited to private discussions and welcome messages, adds another layer of complexity to his approach and motivations.
Joseph Kabila’s discretion in Goma, particularly concerning his movements within the city, contrasts sharply with the scope of his consultations. He appears to be meticulously protecting his image while seeking to spread his “vision” to various segments of the population, including through small committee meetings at his residence.
The central question remains: Under what label is Joseph Kabila operating today? Does he still see himself as a central political actor with the legitimacy to influence the country’s affairs, or is he seeking to redefine his role after the presidency? His consultations, far from being innocuous, suggest a desire to maintain a foothold in the Congolese political game, even in the absence of his status as President of the Republic. The lifting of his immunities may have transformed his legal status, but it has clearly not diminished his ambition to remain an influential figure in the DRC.
Coco Kabwika
