Politics · Other · 1 hr ago
Kabila forms coalition with M23 and other groups opposing Congo's government
Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila has launched a new political and military coalition in Goma, in eastern Congo.
The group, called the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, includes M23 rebels and other groups opposed to President Felix Tshisekedi’s government.
Its stated aim is to unite resistance groups and restore what it calls the pillars of a functioning republic.
M23 has captured large areas in eastern Congo, where about 100 armed groups have competed for territory amid a long-running conflict.
Congo, the United States and U.N. experts accuse Rwanda of backing M23; Rwanda’s role is not described further here.
The coalition’s launch could make peace negotiations between the government and AFC/M23 rebels in Doha more difficult.
A researcher said the move could lead to an escalation in fighting, while the government had not immediately responded.
Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila launched a new coalition of groups opposed to the government of President Felix Tshisekedi.
The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation includes the M23 rebels and groups formerly united under the Congo River Alliance.
Coalition advisor Claude Ibalanky said the group aims to coordinate resistance forces and may use force.
The announcement could complicate peace negotiations between the Congolese government and AFC/M23 rebels.
The government gave no immediate reaction.
- Who
- Former President Joseph Kabila and groups including M23 launched the coalition.
- What
- They formed the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, a political and military alliance opposing the government.
- When
- Monday, October 12, 2026.
- Where
- Goma, in eastern Congo.
- Why
- The coalition says it aims to restore the pillars of a functioning republic and coordinate resistance forces against what it calls tyranny.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
M23 captured Goma and other key cities in eastern Congo in a lightning assault.
The U.S. government imposed sanctions on Kabila for his alleged role in supporting rebel groups.
Kabila launched the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation in Goma.
- Coalition name
- Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN)
- Coalition members
- M23 and groups formerly united under the Congo River Alliance
- Vice presidents
- Four, including former Congo River Alliance leader Corneille Nangaa
- Launch location
- Kabila’s residence in Goma, eastern Congo
- Government response
- No immediate reaction was given by Tshisekedi’s government
What people are saying
unite and coordinate all resistance forces in order to put an end to tyranny — by any means necessary, including the use of force
You don’t make an announcement like this without having prepared the actions that follow
We will likely witness an escalation on the military front
Sources
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