Faith Nyasuguta
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has barred all media outlets from reporting on former President Joseph Kabila or interviewing members of his party, in a move raising fresh concerns over press freedom and political transparency. The sweeping ban was announced by Christian Bosembe, head of the country’s media regulator, CSAC (Supreme Council of Audiovisual and Communication), warning that violations could lead to suspensions.
This controversial decision follows Kabila’s return to the country last month after two years in self-imposed exile. His reappearance has reignited tensions with President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration. Authorities are now pressing to prosecute Kabila over alleged ties to the M23 rebel group, which has been waging a bloody insurgency in eastern DRC. The former president has denied any involvement.
Kabila was recently seen in Goma, a city currently under M23 rebel control. He has used social media to post about his engagements with civil society and religious groups, drawing more public attention to his activities. His political party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), has condemned the media ban. PPRD Secretary Ferdinand Kambere labeled the decision “arbitrary” on X (formerly Twitter), defending Kabila’s right to be heard.
The ban appears to be part of a broader attempt to silence Kabila, who has become increasingly vocal in his criticism of the Tshisekedi government. Last month, after the Senate lifted his immunity, Kabila described the current administration as a “dictatorship.” In response, a government spokesperson dismissed his remarks, claiming the former president “has nothing to offer.”
Civil society voices have also pushed back against the ban. Jean-Claude Katende, president of the African Association for the Defence of Human Rights, called it an “abuse of power,” adding that the move undermines constitutional freedoms. Political analyst Ambroise Mamba warned that the gag order could have the opposite effect, fueling curiosity about Kabila and amplifying his message.
Meanwhile, in rebel-held areas under M23 control, media outlets have refused to comply with the government’s directive. An M23 spokesperson said the ban would not be enforced in territories they control.
Though no formal charges have been filed against Kabila yet, the escalating standoff between the former and current leadership signals deepening political divisions in a country already struggling with violence, displacement, and instability.
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