** Context and challenges of the immunity of Joseph Kabila in the Democratic Republic of Congo **
The vote of the Congolese Senate, which occurred on May 22, 2025, relating to the lifting of the immunities of former President Joseph Kabila, represents a key moment in the political landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Accused by the military justice of complicity with the rebel movement of the AFC/m23, Kabila finds himself at the center of a controversy which raises deep questions on justice and politics in the DRC.
### A major and symbolic vote
The result of the vote is evocative: 88 votes for, five against, and a majority of zero bulletins among 96 voters. This Mega vote not only indicates a political desire to move forward in judicial affairs but also a potential change in the balance of powers within the country. Public opinion and civil society organizations could make it an cornerstone for calls for more transparency and responsibility within political elites.
### The accusations against Kabila and their implications
The accusations brought against Kabila are not new. Since the end of his mandate in 2019, his role during conflicts in eastern DRC has aroused questions. The rebellious M23 movement, active in this region rich in natural resources, has been lifted to struggles of internal and external influence. In addition, the potential link between a former president and an armed rebellion could weaken public confidence in the democratic institutions in place. The question that arises here is: how to guarantee that legal proceedings are not perceived as political maneuvers, but rather as a necessary process for justice?
### Reactions and divergences of interpretation
Kabila’s entourage denounced this vote as an attempt to “instrumentalize justice for political ends”. This accusation highlights the climate of mistrust that persists in the country, where political actors can be perceived as using justice to weaken their adversaries. However, it is also necessary to recognize that the fight against impunity is an aspiration shared by many Congolese who have suffered from the consequences of past conflicts. How can we reconcile these two divergent points of view?
## Political and social consequences
Kabila’s immunity lifting could have deep consequences on Congolese political dynamics. On the one hand, this could open the way to a new era of political responsibility, encouraging other figures in the lead to account. On the other hand, this could exacerbate tensions between different political groups, especially with the approach of future elections. Political actors could be tempted to exploit this situation for electoral purposes, at the risk of deteriorating an already tense climate.
### Towards a collective reflection
This moment must also be a call for collective reflection on the ways to follow to strengthen democracy in the DRC. How to ensure a balance between justice and stability? What measures can be implemented to ensure that surveys and prosecution are carried out independently and impartially, so that the legitimacy of the institutions is preserved?
The many DRC challenges require a sustained commitment to all stakeholders. The lifting of Joseph Kabila’s immunity could be a pivotal moment, not only for justice and the affirmation of rights, but also for the consolidation of democracy. The country’s political future will depend on the ability of its people to dialogue, question and build a better future together, beyond the cleavages inherited from its tumultuous history.