In an unprecedented move, the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) announced on Saturday, April 19, the suspension of all political activities of the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), the party founded by former President Joseph Kabila.
The decision was signed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Jacquemain Shabani, citing concerns about national security, especially in light of recent rebel gains by M23 in the east of the country.
In his statement, Shabani condemned Kabila’s “ambiguous stance” in the face of what he called “a war led by Rwanda,” highlighting Kabila’s silence and controversial return to Goma, a city now largely under rebel control.
The government expressed alarm over the fact that Kabila’s personal security in Goma is reportedly being handled by forces affiliated with the M23 rebel group—raising suspicions about his alleged role in the crisis.
Invoking articles 29, 30, and 31(b) of the Congolese law regulating political parties, the government officially ordered the suspension of all PPRD operations nationwide.
The case has now been referred to the Constitutional Court’s public prosecutor for further investigation.
Minister Shabani also described Kabila’s silence as “complicity,” accusing the former president of violating legal and ethical responsibilities expected from both political leaders and honorary senators.
He reiterated that all political parties have a duty to uphold national unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
While Kabila claims his return aims to help restore peace in eastern Congo, Kinshasa officials say his presence in Goma raises more questions than answers.
