Joseph Kabila Forms Alliance with M23 Against DR Congo Government

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo accused former president Joseph Kabila of planning a "general attack" in alliance with the Rwandan-backed armed group M23. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya stated that Kabila has formalized his attack against the Republic, which he claims involves killing Congolese to conquer territories.

Kabila has taken a direct role in the insurgency by leading a new group called the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), which aims to end tyranny by any means, including force. Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, was condemned to death in absentia a year ago for "complicity" with the M23.

He reappeared in Goma in May 2025, which is now controlled by the M23, and has since visited rebel-held areas. The political climate is tense, with opposition protests against a proposed constitutional amendment that could allow current president Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term.