The former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Joseph Kabila Kabange, has officially announced his return to the political stage, declaring that he is ready to take up the nation’s highest responsibilities once more.
In a solemn declaration addressed to Congolese citizens, Kabila explained that his departure from power in accordance with the Constitution was not the end of his political journey, but rather “a pause.”
“Many believed it was the end of my political career. But today I tell you: it was only a pause,” he said.
Kabila, who stepped down in January 2019 after 18 years in office, said he has witnessed the worsening situation of the country: “broken promises, growing divisions, increasing suffering.” According to him, his successors have brought neither peace nor prosperity to the people.
The former head of state justified his return by stressing the need to “restore the authority of the State,” “protect every Congolese citizen,” and ensure that “the country’s wealth finally benefits its children.” He insisted that his motivation is not personal ambition but the urgency of the challenges the nation is facing.
Last Friday, Kabila was officially charged in a military court in the DRC with what authorities describe as treason, war crimes, and conspiring with the M23 rebel group. Prosecutors have also requested that he face the death penalty, along with long prison sentences if convicted. Kabila has denied the allegations.
“Some will say that I am seeking to reclaim what I once had. But I answer them: I am coming back because Congo is in danger, and because I have the experience and the strength needed to save it,” Kabila emphasized.
Calling on Congolese citizens to “prepare,” he promised a determined return: “I am returning. And I will keep returning until the people regain the dignity that is theirs by right.”
This announcement marks a major turning point in Congolese politics,. The return of Joseph Kabila, who left power in a tense but peaceful transition, could significantly reshape the political landscape in the DRC, especially given the gravity of the legal charges now filed against him.
