Joseph Kabila has suspended his studies at the University of Johannesburg to focus on worsening conditions in the DRC. He emphasized the collective responsibility of Congolese citizens in addressing the nation’s challenges and highlighted the importance of peace for development. Kabila also discussed the significance of dialogue with the Congolese people in mediation efforts and addressed his relationship with President Félix Tshisekedi.
Joseph Kabila, the former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has suspended his studies at the University of Johannesburg to address the deteriorating situation in his home country. During an interview with the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation, Kabila disclosed that he was in Namibia to attend the funeral of the founding President Sam Nujoma and reflected on his activities post-presidency. He stated, “We left office as part of the Constitution and have been involved in various activities, including academic pursuits, which we intend to continue. However, if the situation back home continues to deteriorate, then we must ensure that the DRC does not go down the drain.”
Kabila clarified his academic status, confirming, “Yes, studying at the University of Johannesburg, which I have now suspended. We put our academic activities on hold two or three months ago to dedicate more time and attention to the situation back home.” He rejected claims that he was “emerging from the shadows,” stating, “Those reports are wrong. I’ve never been in the shadows—I’ve always been in the light.”
Emphasizing the complexity of Congo’s challenges, Kabila remarked that solving the nation’s issues requires collective action from its 120 million citizens. He stated, “The Congo is a nation of 120 million people… I believe every Congolese citizen has a role to play, whether individually or collectively.” Kabila underscored the importance of regional involvement, asserting the need to channel good intentions and positive energy to tackle the crisis.
Kabila highlighted the significance of peace for development, reflecting on historical agreements like the Lusaka Agreement of 2001-2002. He noted, “Yes, our government faced challenges with rebellions, especially in the East. We addressed them… which helped bring peace to 98 percent of the region.” He recognized that ongoing conflicts stem from governance issues, injustices, and constitutional violations.
Recalling a pivotal decision in 2001, Kabila mentioned that the withdrawal of foreign troops was necessary for Congolese sovereignty. He stated, “We believed that all foreign troops had to leave the DRC for peace to be achieved… However, a similar approach today… would require careful deliberation.”
Regarding mediation efforts, Kabila advised that engaging directly with Congolese citizens is essential for resolving the crisis. “My advice… would be to talk to the Congolese people. They know best what they are suffering from,” he indicated. He stated that successful mediation is contingent on goodwill and establishing lasting peace guarantees.
In reference to his relationship with the current DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, Kabila noted, “A coalition government was in place, but it was unilaterally ended when President Félix decided he did not need it. We took note of that decision.”
In conclusion, Joseph Kabila’s decision to suspend his academic studies highlights his commitment to addressing the escalating crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His insights underscore the importance of collective action among Congolese citizens and the necessity for regional cooperation to restore peace and stability. Kabila’s reflections on past agreements reiterate his belief in dialogue and the centrality of engaging the Congolese populace in any mediation efforts moving forward.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
