Joseph Kabila launches coalition with M23 to topple Félix Tshisekedi in eastern DR Congo

Situation Overview

On 13 October 2026, Joseph Kabila announced the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) at a press conference at his residence in Goma, eastern DR Congo, where the M23 has controlled the city since January 2025. The coalition brings together Kabila’s allies with the M23 and other anti-Kinshasa militias, with the stated aim of toppling the administration of President Félix Tshisekedi. Kabila’s move places the former DR Congo president directly alongside the M23 armed group, which is described in the reporting as Rwanda-backed. The M23 leader Sultani Makenga is set to serve as one of Kabila’s four deputies in the new coalition, according to the announcement. The articles do not report specific market or economic effects tied to the coalition launch. The next concrete development signalled in the reporting is the coalition’s political and military posture following the announcement, amid ongoing control of Goma by the M23.

Geopolitical Implications

1. 01

   The move directly links a former head of state to an armed rebel group, raising the risk of a broader confrontation with the Tshisekedi administration.

2. 02

   The reported Rwanda-backed character of M23 increases the likelihood of regional diplomatic friction around external support and ceasefire negotiations.

Key Signals

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  Any announced operational steps by the FRN coalition after the Goma launch, including changes in control or deployments in eastern DR Congo.

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