President of Congo (Kinshasa)

Joseph Kabila was born on December 4 1971, at Hewa Bora, South Kivu. As a youth, Joseph Kabila spent much of his life in exile in Tanzania where he received extensive military training. He was in command of the army when he was chosen to take over the presidency. Since his swearing-in, both the Congolese government and its rebel opposition have expressed interest in reviving a 1999 peace accord, signed by the elder Kabila. Since his appointment as president, Joseph Kabila has made clear his intention to do everything he can to restore stability. Joseph Kabila also announced his intention to liberalise the economy. He has committed himself to protect property and restore judicial independence