Former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Joseph Kabila, who led the country from 2001 to 2019, held a rare and unexpected meeting on May 27, 2025, with senior leaders of the AFC/M23 rebel coalition, a group opposed to the government of President Félix Tshisekedi.
According to a statement released by AFC/M23, Kabila arrived in Goma in the early hours of May 26. His first engagements included private discussions with members of his entourage to organize his schedule in areas currently under rebel control.
Kabila’s associates later confirmed that he had hosted a meeting with key AFC/M23 figures: coalition leader Corneille Nangaa, his deputy Bertrand Bimwa, and another senior official from the group. The meeting was described as a “greeting and goodwill exchange,” with indications that deeper dialogue may follow in the coming days.
Despite the significance of Kabila’s visit, no photos or videos of him have been made public since his arrival in Goma. Updates on his movements and meetings have mostly come through Reconstruire RDC, a platform he founded, and select insiders within his circle.
Reconstruire RDC announced that starting May 28, Kabila would embark on a series of consultations with Congolese citizens across various sectors, aiming to gather perspectives on restoring peace and stability in the conflict-ridden nation.
His agenda includes meetings with politicians, local leaders, security officials, traditional chiefs, community elders, journalists, women’s groups, and religious figures. His team emphasized that Kabila is open to engaging with any stakeholder who can contribute to building lasting peace in the DRC.
At the conclusion of this consultation mission, Kabila is expected to hold a press conference in Goma. Organizers have promised to notify journalists in advance to ensure open and prepared participation.
