DRC Accuses Kabila of Planning Major Attack

The Democratic Republic of Congo has accused former president Joseph Kabila of preparing a major offensive against the country after joining forces with the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel movement.

Government accuses Kabila of escalating conflict

Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya said Kabila had formalised plans to attack the country, accusing him of seeking to seize territory through armed force. He argued that the newly formed movement was operating under familiar leadership and methods. Kabila has denied allegations linking him to the insurgency.

Kabila forms alliance with M23

On Monday, Kabila joined M23 leaders to establish the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), described as a political and military movement seeking to end what it calls tyranny, including through force. Kabila will lead the organisation, with M23 leaders serving as deputies. The move marks a more direct role for the former president in the conflict affecting eastern DRC.

Former president faces death sentence

Kabila, who governed the country from 2001 to 2019, was sentenced to death in absentia in September 2025 for alleged complicity with M23. Congolese authorities have also accused him of helping establish the Congo River Alliance, the group’s former political wing. After spending several years outside the country, Kabila returned to public view in Goma in May 2025. The city is now under M23 control, and he has since made visits to rebel-held areas.

Fighting continues in eastern DRC

An offensive involving M23 and the Rwandan army in early 2025 led to the capture of Goma and Bukavu. Although front lines have since stabilised, fighting continues, sometimes involving drone strikes and artillery, particularly in South Kivu province.

Political tensions rise ahead of 2028 elections

Kabila’s return comes amid growing political tensions over a proposed constitutional amendment that critics fear could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term. Tshisekedi succeeded Kabila and is due to complete his second and constitutionally final five-year term in 2028. Opposition groups have held rallies against the proposed changes, but the main opposition coalition has kept its distance from Kabila. In a speech published online on Friday, Kabila criticised the government, accusing it of being focused on extending its time in power.