World · Goma, DR Congo · Elections hub
Kabila Launches New Coalition With M23 Rebels in DRC
In brief
Former Democratic Republic of the Congo president Joseph Kabila announced a new political and military coalition, the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), at a news conference in Goma on Monday. The group includes leaders of the M23 armed movement, which controls large parts of eastern DRC, Al Jazeera reports.
What is the FRN? Kabila said he will lead the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, with rebel figures including Corneille Nangaa, a former head of the AFC alliance that includes M23, as deputies. A coalition adviser said the group aims to unite opposition forces, including by force. The DRC government did not respond immediately, according to Al Jazeera.
Why does Kabila joining M23 matter?
Kabila led the DRC from 2001 to 2019 and is a former army chief. Analysts quoted by Al Jazeera say the move raises the chance of a direct confrontation with President Felix Tshisekedi’s government and could undermine talks between Kinshasa and M23 that were expected in Qatar in November.
What legal cases does Kabila face?
A DRC military court sentenced Kabila to death in absentia last year on charges including treason; he calls the case politically motivated and denies the charges. The US imposed sanctions on him earlier this year.
Who backs M23?
The DRC, the United States and UN experts accuse Rwanda of backing M23. Rwanda denies this.
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Why it matters
Eastern DRC’s conflict has displaced huge numbers of people; a new armed coalition led by a former president could widen it.
People also ask
Where is Goma?
Goma is a city in eastern DR Congo on Lake Kivu, near the Rwanda border. M23 has controlled it since January 2025.
Are peace talks still planned?
Talks between the DRC government and M23 were expected in Qatar in November, but analysts warn the new coalition could complicate them.
Sources
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