Congo’s Former President Kabila Launches Anti-Government Coalition with M23 Rebels

Joseph Kabila unveils new coalition FRN, uniting opposition forces including M23 rebels in eastern Congo. Challenges Tshisekedi's government and peace process.

Editorial Desk

October 13, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo — Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila has announced the formation of a new political and military coalition called the Front pour la refondation de la nation (FRN), which includes the M23 rebels, to oppose the current government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Kabila’s FRN aims to unite and coordinate all resistance forces to end what it calls tyranny, using any means necessary, including force. The coalition includes groups from the Congo River Alliance, with Corneille Nangaa serving as one of its vice presidents. The announcement was made in Goma, eastern Congo, on Monday, October 12, 2026.

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The move is seen as a major challenge to President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration and complicates ongoing peace efforts with rebels. M23, accused by the U.S., Congo, and the U.N. of being backed by Rwanda, has controlled key cities in eastern Congo. Kabila, who led the country from 2001 to 2019, faces charges of treason and war crimes, which he denies. Experts warn the coalition could escalate violence and hinder negotiations with rebels.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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