Joseph Kabila to Lead New DR Congo Rebel Coalition, FRN

Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila has been publicly declared the leader of a new rebel coalition known as the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN). This movement explicitly states its objective is to coordinate “resistance forces” with the goal of ending “tyranny” in the Democratic Republic of Congo, indicating a willingness to use force.

The announcement, made at a press conference in Goma, marks the clearest indication to date of Kabila’s direct involvement in an armed group. This comes a year after he was sentenced to death in absentia for treason, a charge he has previously denied any connection to, particularly regarding the M23 rebel group.

Sultani Makenga, a prominent M23 leader, has been appointed as one of Kabila’s four deputies within the FRN. The other three deputy positions are also filled by members of the AFC-M23 alliance, which gained control over significant portions of the mineral-rich eastern DR Congo last year.

This development follows recent public statements by Kabila, where he outlined a plan for Congolese citizens to “rescue” their country. He has accused the current administration under President Félix Tshisekedi of neglecting his proposals for peace in the east, mismanaging the economy, failing to ensure security, and suppressing political opposition.

Kabila, who ruled DR Congo from 2001 to 2019, has become increasingly vocal in his criticism of his successor, especially concerning alleged constitutional overreach and security issues in the eastern regions, which have been plagued by decades of violence and numerous active militia groups.

The formation of the FRN occurs amidst political uncertainty in the DR Congo, with President Tshisekedi having previously suggested that upcoming elections might be postponed due to ongoing conflict, and hinting at a potential bid for a third term. This possibility is being further explored through parliamentary action that could enable a referendum on term limits.

The Congolese government has not yet issued a public response to these accusations or the formation of the new coalition.

Source: Nile Post