Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila announces return to DR Congo after nearly six years of silence and one year in exile, citing the deteriorating security situation in the country’s eastern provinces. His decision comes at a time when the M23 rebel group has taken control of key cities, escalating violence and prompting fears of a wider humanitarian crisis.
Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, said his return was motivated by the need for internal dialogue and a Congolese-led resolution to the long-standing conflict. He criticized President Félix Tshisekedi’s approach to the crisis, particularly the reliance on foreign military interventions rather than homegrown solutions.
In his statement, Kabila emphasized his desire to “focus on peace, sovereignty, and national integrity,” noting that he had already engaged with various regional leaders, including former presidents, in search of a diplomatic breakthrough.
The eastern DR Congo conflict, which has lasted over three years, intensified in January 2025 when the M23 rebel movement seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. By mid-February, the rebels had also captured Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu. These developments have displaced hundreds of thousands and triggered concerns among international observers about a possible return to full-scale war.
Kabila’s unexpected return has reshaped the political landscape, sparking both support and criticism. Some view him as a unifying figure capable of bridging divides between warring factions, while others see his move as a political maneuver ahead of upcoming elections.
Supporters argue that his historical ties with the military and local leaders could foster dialogue, especially in areas where government influence has waned. Critics, however, question whether his leadership will offer fresh solutions or merely revive old political rivalries.
Meanwhile, the Congolese government has remained cautious in its response. Official statements acknowledge Kabila’s right to return but emphasize that peace efforts are already underway through regional partnerships like the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Civil society organizations have welcomed any initiative that promotes peace but stress the importance of placing the interests of displaced communities and victims of violence at the center of any resolution process.
With Kabila back on Congolese soil, all eyes are now on Kinshasa. His next steps—whether political engagement, mediation, or leadership ambitions—are likely to influence the trajectory of both the crisis and the nation’s political future.
The return of the former president signals not only a personal political revival but also a critical moment in DR Congo’s search for stability. As the country braces for a potentially decisive period, the question remains: can Kabila’s return reignite hope for peace, or will it deepen the fault lines in an already fractured nation?