How did Laurent Kabila overthrow Mobutu in 1997?

Laurent Kabila overthrew Mobutu Sese Seko in 1997 by leading the Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo-Zaire (AFDL) in a successful military offensive.12

The rebellion was fueled by regional instability following the Rwandan genocide, which led to an influx of Hutu extremists into eastern Zaire. Mobutu’s decision to support these extremists and his hostility toward Zairians of Rwandan Tutsi origin alienated local populations. Consequently, local Tutsi and the government of Rwanda joined forces with Kabila. Kabila also secured critical backing from the governments of Angola and Uganda, both of which had been antagonized by Mobutu’s support for rebel movements within their own borders.12

In October 1996, while Mobutu was abroad for medical treatment, the AFDL launched an offensive from the east, capturing key cities such as Bukavu and Goma. Despite Mobutu’s return, the rebel forces continued their steady advance, taking Kisangani in March 1997, followed by Mbuji-Mayi and Lubumbashi in April. After peace negotiations failed, the AFDL entered the capital, Kinshasa, on May 17, 1997, by which time Mobutu had fled the country.123