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The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially banned all media coverage related to former President Joseph Kabila and his political party. The directive was issued by Christian Bosembe, head of the CSAC (Supreme Council of Audiovisual and Communication), as a national security measure.

This move follows the sudden return of Kabila after two years abroad. His reappearance in Goma, a city partly under the control of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, has raised serious concerns within the government. Officials suspect Kabila of trying to destabilize the country by secretly backing the rebel group accused of war crimes and violent attacks in eastern DRC.

Tshisekedi Moves to Safeguard Peace

President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration has defended the media restriction as a necessary step to prevent Kabila from using the press to rebuild political influence and spread confusion during a time of conflict. Analysts close to the government say Kabila's return is not just political, it's part of a wider threat linked to regional instability and rebel violence.

Earlier this year, the Senate removed Kabila's legal immunity, opening the door for possible prosecution on charges of treason. He is suspected of aiding M23, the same group Tshisekedi has fought hard to neutralize through military operations and regional diplomacy.

Kabila has denied the accusations and accused Tshisekedi of ruling like a dictator. However, the government has strongly rejected these claims, saying Kabila “has nothing to offer but division.”

Media Blackout Sparks Reactions

The CSAC confirmed that any media outlets that violate the directive could be suspended or shut down. While some human rights groups raised concerns about media freedom, many citizens online have supported the move, saying the press should not be a platform for rebel sympathizers or former leaders accused of working against the country.