Former President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Joseph Kabila, has condemned the United States’ decision to impose sanctions on him over alleged links to armed groups operating in the country’s conflict-ridden eastern region.
Kabila, in a statement released on Friday, described the move by the United States as “profoundly unjustified, politically motivated and based on unsubstantiated accusations.”
Washington had on Thursday blacklisted the former leader, accusing him of providing financial and political support to groups contributing to violence and instability in the Great Lakes region, particularly the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group.
The US action is part of broader efforts to address the ongoing crisis in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebels have seized significant territories in recent months.
Reacting to the development, the Congolese government in Kinshasa welcomed the sanctions, describing them as “an important step in the fight against impunity.” Authorities said the measures could limit Kabila’s ability to mobilise resources or logistical support that might prolong the conflict.
Kabila, however, rejected the allegations, insisting the decision was based on claims by the current administration of Félix Tshisekedi, which he said had failed to provide credible evidence.
The United States has also previously imposed sanctions on neighbouring Rwanda over its alleged role in supporting the M23 rebels, as part of attempts to enforce a fragile peace agreement between the armed group and the Congolese government.
Tensions in the region have remained high despite diplomatic efforts, including a US-backed peace initiative announced in December by Donald Trump, which aimed to stabilise the region and open up access to the DRC’s vast mineral resources.
Meanwhile, Kabila faces additional legal challenges at home. A Congolese military court last year sentenced him to death in absentia for treason over alleged complicity with the M23 and its political wing, the Congo River Alliance.
The conviction effectively prevents the former president from returning to the country to pursue any political ambitions.
The M23 rebel group has yet to publicly respond to the latest US sanctions.
