Mutamba’s resignation follows a ruling by the Constitutional Court on Monday, which barred him from leaving Kinshasa. The move came shortly after the National Assembly voted decisively to lift his political immunity, opening the door to criminal prosecution.

He is accused of diverting around $19 million in public funds intended for a prison development project, a serious blow to a man who has publicly called for harsh penalties against corruption. In a recent televised debate, Mutamba went as far as advocating the death penalty for officials found guilty of embezzlement.

Mutamba now also faces a contempt of court charge after alleging that the case against him is politically motivated. His claims have been dismissed by judicial authorities.

--ChannelAfrica--