The Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursday lifted the parliamentary immunity of former President Joseph Kabila, paving the way for legal proceedings against him for "high treason."
This decision came after a decisive plenary session convened at the People's Palace, following a request from the General Auditor of the High Military Court, who accuses Mr. Kabila of participating in an insurgent movement, treason, involvement in war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
Senators followed the recommendations of a special committee, all 40 members of which voted in favor of this measure.
In April, Justice Minister Constant Mutamba had referred the matter to the judiciary to initiate proceedings against Joseph Kabila "for his direct involvement" with the armed group M23.
Joseph Kabila, 53, ruled the vast Central African country for 18 years, from 2001 to 2019. He left office with the title of lifetime senator and parliamentary immunity. His successor and current president, Félix Tshisekedi, accuses him of complicity with the M23 armed group amidst escalating conflict in the eastern part of the country.