DR Congo bans reporting on ex-President Kabila

The Congolese government has banned media from reporting on former President Joseph Kabila.

This ban also includes interviews with members of his party.

Kabila returned to the Democratic Republic of Congo last month. Tensions have risen between him and President Félix Tshisekedi, his successor.

Authorities want to prosecute Kabila for treason. They accuse him of links to M23 rebels fighting the army, which he denies.

Christian Bosembe, head of DR Congo's media regulator, warned about consequences for breaches. Violators could face suspension.

An M23 spokesperson responded to the ban. They stated that media in their controlled areas would ignore it.

Kabila has not yet commented on the ban. However, Ferdinand Kambere, his party's secretary, called it "arbitrary" on X.

Last week, Kabila was seen in Goma, a city under M23 control. He criticized the government after the senate lifted his immunity regarding alleged support for M23.

Rwanda is accused of backing M23 but denies these claims.

Kabila has not been charged with any crime yet. Last month, he labeled the Congolese government a "dictatorship."

A government spokesperson dismissed Kabila's criticism as having "nothing to offer."

Jean-Claude Katende, an activist and human rights defender, called the ban an "abuse of power."

Political analyst Ambroise Mamba suggested that the ban might backfire. It could increase public interest in Kabila’s activities.

Since returning from exile two years ago, Kabila's party shares updates online about his visits with civil society groups and religious leaders in Goma.