M23 fighters announced that former Congo President Joseph Kabila had come to Goma city. The rebel group controls this area and welcomed his visit. M23 leaders called Kabila a respected leader and praised his decision to return home. They said he made the right choice to come back to his homeland. The rebels described Goma as a place free from unfair treatment.
Congo's government rejected the importance of Kabila's return. Officials said Kabila brings nothing good to the country and causes problems. Last week, senators removed Kabila's legal protection and allowed courts to charge him with serious crimes. The government accuses Kabila of treason and helping enemies attack Congo's system. They also claim he supports armed groups that commit war crimes.
Legal troubles started after Kabila showed up with M23 guards earlier this year. The justice minister seized Kabila's property and shut down his political party. Several party members faced arrest for suspected rebel connections. M23 rebels control large areas of eastern Congo and major cities like Goma and Bukavu. Fighting continues between rebels and government forces despite peace talks happening overseas.
Congo's government rejected the importance of Kabila's return. Officials said Kabila brings nothing good to the country and causes problems. Last week, senators removed Kabila's legal protection and allowed courts to charge him with serious crimes. The government accuses Kabila of treason and helping enemies attack Congo's system. They also claim he supports armed groups that commit war crimes.
Legal troubles started after Kabila showed up with M23 guards earlier this year. The justice minister seized Kabila's property and shut down his political party. Several party members faced arrest for suspected rebel connections. M23 rebels control large areas of eastern Congo and major cities like Goma and Bukavu. Fighting continues between rebels and government forces despite peace talks happening overseas.
