Former DR Congo president Joseph Kabila is named leader of a new rebel coalition, the FRN, with M23 leader Sultani Makenga among four deputies
13 October 2026
The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) was unveiled on Monday at Kabila's residence in Goma, eastern DR Congo.
It says it will coordinate "resistance forces" against the government of President Felix Tshisekedi, "by all means, including force".
M23 leader Sultani Makenga is one of Kabila's four deputies; the other three also come from the AFC-M23 alliance.
Kabila ruled from 2001 to January 2019 and was sentenced to death in absentia for treason last year.
M23 has controlled Goma since early 2025.
Government and M23 representatives were expected to meet in Qatar in November for talks, which analysts say the new coalition could undermine.
The BBC reports that the Congolese government has not commented.
In plain words
M23 March 23 Movement — An armed group that controls Goma and large areas of eastern DR Congo.
In absentia In the absence of the accused — A trial or sentence held without the person being present.