The Disappearance of John Kabamba: A Troubling Situation for Journalists in the DRC
In a shocking turn of events, Congolese journalist John Kabamba has been reported missing since December 14, 2025, raising urgent concerns about the safety of media professionals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Kabamba, known for his vibrant television hosting on shows such as "Le Peuple Parle" (The People Speak) aired on Congo 26 TV and Mercury TV, has not been seen since he conducted an interview with a rebel leader.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is calling on the Congolese authorities to take immediate action to locate Kabamba and ensure his well-being, while also urging them to lift the 90-day suspension that has been imposed on him. According to Muthoki Mumo, the CPJ's Africa Program Coordinator, this incident highlights the grave dangers that journalists face in the DRC, emphasizing the need for authorities to protect those who are simply doing their jobs.
Two of Kabamba's colleagues from Kinshasa, who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation, confirmed that he has been missing since December 14, underscoring the precarious environment for journalists in the region. This situation escalated further when, just a day later, the regulatory body known as the Superior Council of Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC) suspended Kabamba for a period of three months. The suspension stemmed from his decision to interview Daniel Safu, a former lawmaker who had recently joined the Congo River Alliance (AFC), a rebel group based in Goma.
The CSAC's order, which has come under scrutiny, accused Kabamba of failing to fulfill his “professional obligation to correct” his guest during the live interview. The authorities alleged that Safu made serious accusations against the government and incited violence by urging rebels to advance towards Kinshasa, aiming to overthrow the legally established government. This incident raises important questions about the boundaries of journalistic responsibility and the risks involved in reporting on sensitive political issues.
The AFC, which includes factions like the M23, recently captured Uvira, the capital of South Kivu province, marking another significant advance in their campaign across eastern DRC, having seized Bukavu and Goma earlier in 2025. The atmosphere in Uvira is tense, as local journalists express deep fears for their safety amid the ongoing conflict. Alarmingly, on December 9, journalist Janvier Lwesho Nyakirigo and his brother lost their lives due to an explosion at their home in Kiliba, highlighting the severe risks faced by those in the media sector. CPJ is currently investigating whether Nyakirigo was specifically targeted because of his reporting for Kiliba FM, a community broadcaster.
While the AFC announced on December 15 that they would be withdrawing from Uvira, citing ceasefire discussions facilitated by the United States, the Congolese military has accused the rebels of maintaining a presence in the area. Rwanda has denied any involvement in supporting the M23, despite reports from United Nations experts indicating otherwise.
Bruno Mbolisom, vice-president of the CSAC, stated to CPJ via messaging app that he was unaware of Kabamba's whereabouts and noted that Kabamba did not attend the hearing scheduled by the CSAC. Efforts by CPJ to reach out to government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya and CSAC representative Oscar Kabamba for comments have gone unanswered.
As we reflect on this troubling situation, it compels us to ask: What measures can be taken to safeguard journalists in conflict zones? And how can we hold authorities accountable for ensuring freedom of the press? Your thoughts and insights could contribute to this crucial discussion.
