Media outlets in the Democratic Republic of Congo are now prohibited from reporting on former President Joseph Kabila or providing any information or commentary about the activities of his political party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD).
On Tuesday, June 3, Christian Bosembe, President of the Higher Council for Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC), announced the decision while speaking on the independent broadcaster Top Congo.
According to the new directive, national media can no longer follow, report, or broadcast anything related to the PPRD.
They are also barred from airing statements or interviews involving the party’s leader, Joseph Kabila.
Christian Bosembe clarified:
“This is not censorship. No rights have been violated. Television should not be used as a platform to overthrow the government.”
This development comes just days after the Senate lifted Joseph Kabila’s immunity on Thursday, May 22, following the approval of a report by a special committee. The committee had been tasked with examining allegations brought by the State Auditor General to the Military High Court, seeking to lift the immunity of Senator Kabila.
As a result of the Senate vote, Joseph Kabila may now face legal prosecution, accused of war crimes and alleged collaboration with the armed rebel group AFC/M23.
