Former Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) president Joseph Kabila has launched a new political-military movement with the M23 rebel coalition, while fighting across the country’s east has killed dozens and displaced civilians.
Kabila unveiled the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) in Goma on 12 October, positioning himself at the head of an anti-government coalition that includes leaders of the Rwanda-backed Congo River Alliance (AFC) and the March 23 Movement (M23), according to Africa News.
The FRN replaces the AFC/M23 alliance and is led by Kabila, with former AFC leader Corneille Nangaa, M23 political chief Bertrand Bisimwa and M23 military commander Sultani Makenga serving among his deputies.
A spokesman said the movement was created under Article 64 of the constitution, which the group interprets as authorizing citizens to resist unconstitutional rule “by all means.”
Kabila, who was sentenced to death in absentia in 2025 for alleged treason over links to AFC/M23, has accused President Félix Tshisekedi’s government of mismanaging the eastern war and deepening political division.
The launch follows a June 2026 UN experts’ report that reportedly anticipated a restructuring of AFC/M23 under Kabila’s leadership. According to analysts, the move reflects internal tensions: Kabila and Nangaa reportedly favour advancing on Kinshasa, while some M23 commanders oppose operations beyond the Kivu provinces.
Meanwhile, in Ituri Province, at least 45 people were killed in recent fighting between the predominantly Lendu CODECO militia and the Convention for a Popular Revolution (CRP), which is linked to the rival Hema-dominated Zaire militia.
Clashes in Djugu Territory triggered further displacement and raised fears for civilians near displacement camps. UN peacekeepers fired warning shots near the Roe camp, while about 1,000 people sought safety at a MONUSCO base in Drodro.
Government forces also reported gains against M23 in Sud Kivu, between October 3 and 6, as pro-government troops and allied Wazalendo fighters retook several localities in Kalehe Territory, including the strategic mining town of Numbi.
