Goma, DRC – April 19, 2025 — Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila made a surprise return to the Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday, arriving in Goma, a strategic city currently under the control of M23 rebels allegedly backed by Rwanda. Kabila’s return from exile—after leaving the country in 2023—comes amid escalating conflict in eastern Congo that has claimed approximately 3,000 lives and displaced over 7 million people.
Sources close to the former leader confirmed his arrival, which was also acknowledged by an M23 rebel official. While Kabila has not disclosed specific plans, his aides say he intends to contribute to peace efforts in the embattled region.
“Everyone is talking about Congo without the Congolese … this is not normal,” one of his aides stated, emphasizing Kabila’s belief that local voices must lead peace initiatives.
The return of the ex-president, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, adds a new layer of uncertainty to an already volatile situation. Kabila’s presence in rebel-held Goma could shift the dynamics of power and diplomacy in the region, especially as the central government has accused him of supporting armed groups destabilizing the east.
He is expected to address the public in Goma in the coming days, although the exact nature of his mission remains unclear.
The conflict in eastern DRC has drawn regional and international concern, with accusations of Rwandan involvement fueling tensions between the two countries. Kabila’s return is likely to spark political debate and could either catalyze peace talks—or further deepen divisions.
