Kabila leads new rebel coalition

Joseph Kabila, former DR Congo president, has been named leader of the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, a new rebel coalition seeking to oust the government by all means including force.

Clearest sign of armed involvement

The announcement on Monday marks Kabila's clearest indication of direct involvement in an armed movement, a year after he was sentenced to death in absentia for treason. He had previously denied links to M23.

M23 leader becomes deputy

M23 leader Sultani Makenga will serve as one of Kabila's four deputies in the new movement. The other three deputies also come from the AFC-M23 alliance that seized eastern DR Congo last year.

Kabila's accusations against government

Kabila accused President Félix Tshisekedi's government of disregarding his proposals for ending the conflict, undermining constitutional rule, mismanaging the economy, failing to improve security and arbitrarily arresting political opponents.

Kabila's political history

Kabila ruled DR Congo from two thousand one until January two thousand nineteen, when Tshisekedi took office following a disputed election.

Analyst: Kabila seeks broader support

Richard Moncrieff of the International Crisis Group says Kabila's higher profile aims to enlarge the rebellion by drawing support from people dissatisfied with Tshisekedi beyond M23's narrow political base.

US sanctions complicate Kabila's path

The US imposed sweeping sanctions on Kabila in May, accusing him of backing M23 and providing financial support. Moncrieff says this suggests American support for Tshisekedi's government, complicating Kabila's seizure of power.

Peace talks stalled, conflict escalates

The International Crisis Group analyst says peace negotiations are going nowhere and all parties now prioritise gaining control on the ground, as Kabila's coalition formation shows the conflict intensifying.

“going nowhere and attempting to gain control on the ground is the priority for all parties”