The authorities within the Democratic Republic of Congo are looking for to raise former President Joseph Kabila’s immunity from prosecution after accusing him of backing rebels within the east.
There was a “substantial physique of paperwork, testimony and materials information” linking Kabila to the M23 armed group, Justice Minister Fixed Mutamba mentioned on Wednesday.
The M23 at the moment controls components of the mineral-rich east of the nation after making important advances earlier this 12 months.
Kabila, 53, has not commented on the accusations however has prior to now denied any reference to the insurgents.
He led DR Congo for 18 years, after succeeding his father Laurent, who was shot lifeless in 2001. Joseph Kabila was simply 29 on the time.
After stepping down, he was given the title of “senator for all times”, which supplies him authorized immunity.
With the intention to pursue a authorized case, DR Congo’s army prosecutor has requested the senate to overturn this.
There have been studies final month that Kabila had returned to the nation – visiting M23-held Goma – after spending two years in South Africa.
However these had been denied by his political social gathering, the Folks’s Social gathering for Reconstruction and Democracy.
Extra BBC tales on DR Congo’s battle:
[Getty Images/BBC]
Go to BBCAfrica.com for extra information from the African continent.
Comply with us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Fb at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica