Kabila forms new rebel coalition with M23 in eastern DR Congo

AI-generated briefing · First published 2026-10-13 11:25:36 UTC

Former president Joseph Kabila leads the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, uniting with M23 rebels to oust the government.

Former DR Congo president Joseph Kabila launched the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) on Monday in Goma, naming himself leader and appointing M23-linked figures including Corneille Nangaa and Sultani Makenga as deputies. [1] [3]

The coalition aims to end "tyranny" by any means, including force, and was announced at Kabila’s residence in M23-controlled Goma. The DRC government has not commented. [1] [3]

Analysts say the move raises the risk of escalated fighting and could derail planned US-brokered talks in Qatar next month. [1] [2]

Sources

1. Former DR Congo President Kabila joins M23 rebels in a new coalition

   Al Jazeera · 2026-10-13 08:50:49 UTC · Full text

2. Former DR Congo leader Joseph Kabila to lead new rebel alliance

   Financial Times · 2026-10-13 09:58:46 UTC · Summary only

3. Ex-president named leader of new DR Congo rebel coalition

   BBC World · 2026-10-13 11:23:55 UTC · Full text

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