Former DR Congo President Kabila Leads New Rebel Coalition, Raises Peace Questions

The FRN aims to unite opposition forces, including figures associated with the AFC/M23 rebel movements, to end tyranny in the DRC by all means, including force.

Claude Ibalanky, an FRN coalition adviser, announced the group's leadership at Kabila's residence in Goma, which has been under M23 control since last year. Video released by the group showed Kabila signing documents. Kabila heads the FRN, with AFC leader Corneille Nangaa and M23 political chief Bertrand Bisimwa as vice presidents. M23 military commander Sultani Makenga will lead its armed forces and serve as one of Kabila's four deputies.

Freddy Kaniki was appointed secretary-general, and Benjamin Mbonimpa was named deputy secretary-general. Kabila, 55, ruled the DRC from 2001 until 2019. Kabila has denied these allegations and called the proceedings politically motivated. Washington imposed sanctions on him in April, accusing him of financing the AFC and encouraging Congolese troops to defect. The FRN succeeds the Congo River Alliance (AFC), which had been allied with the M23 rebellion.

The AFC/M23 signed the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement on November 15, 2025. Questions are now being raised about how the new body intends to adhere to this agreement.