Kabila to Lead New Anti-Government Coalition in DRC

Former Democratic Republic of Congo president Joseph Kabila has been named leader of a new political-military coalition bringing together figures linked to the AFC/M23 movement in opposition to President Félix Tshisekedi’s government.

New Coalition Unveiled in Goma

The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, known as FRN, was announced on Monday in Goma, eastern DRC. The group says it aims to unite opposition forces and coordinate efforts to challenge the government in Kinshasa. Coalition adviser Claude Ibalanky said the platform intended to bring together resistance groups to pursue political change, including through the use of force. He described the initiative as an effort to reshape the country’s future.

M23 Figures Appointed to Leadership

Several prominent figures associated with the AFC/M23 movement have been assigned senior positions within the new platform. Corneille Nangaa and Bertrand Bisimwa have been named vice-presidents, while Sultani Makenga will serve as chief of general staff. Freddy Kaniki has been appointed secretary-general, with Benjamin Bonimpa taking the role of deputy secretary-general. The government of President Tshisekedi had not issued a response to the announcement at the time of the report.

Coalition Signals Shift in Opposition

The formation of the FRN comes amid changes among groups opposed to the Congolese government. A June report by the United Nations Group of Experts had already highlighted the possibility of restructuring within the AFC/M23 movement, including a potential change of name and a leading role for Kabila. Coalition member Moïse Nyarugabo issued a warning to Tshisekedi, saying the group was prepared for peace but would also respond if the government chose military confrontation.

Kabila Faces Serious Legal Charges

Kabila, who led the DRC from 2001 to 2019, was sentenced to death in absentia by a Congolese court in 2025 on charges including treason and war crimes. The former president has denied links to the M23 movement and Rwanda, describing the legal proceedings against him as politically motivated. His appointment to lead the new coalition adds another development to the country’s ongoing political and security tensions.