Congo frees opposition leader and former president's ally Kabund

22/2/2025 7:05

Democratic Republic of Congo has freed an opposition leader and the president's former right-hand man, Jean-Marc Kabund, his lawyer said on Friday, ending his imprisonment on charges including contempt of the head of state.



The one-time vice president of parliament and lawmaker had a falling out with President Felix Tshisekedi in 2022, after which he launched his own political party. He was arrested in August of that year and sentenced to seven years in prison.



His lawyer, Ghislain Mwanji, told Reuters Kabund was free, without giving further details. The justice ministry also confirmed his release.



Kabund has received a presidential pardon, a spokesperson for the president's office said.