Joseph Kabila takes leadership of new political-military alliance in eastern DR Congo
Former Democratic Republic of the Congo president Joseph Kabila has announced that he will lead a new political and military alliance involving the M23 armed movement, which controls large areas of the country’s east. The development adds another layer of uncertainty to the country’s political and security crisis as President Felix Tshisekedi approaches the end of his second term, scheduled for 2028.
The alliance was unveiled in Goma, a major eastern city under M23 control. Kabila appeared alongside senior figures from the movement during the presentation of the new organisation, named the Front for the Re-establishment of the Nation. He did not address journalists at the event.
According to the alliance’s political statement, the group aims to combine the political influence, military capabilities and resources of its constituent organisations to bring about a change of power in Kinshasa. The document also indicated that the use of force remains among the options being considered to achieve its objectives.
Kabila will head the new front, while leadership positions have been assigned to figures associated with M23 and the Congo River Alliance, the political structure previously linked to the armed movement. The announcement signals an effort to consolidate the groups’ political and military coordination under a single organisation.
The move comes weeks after a Congolese military court reportedly sentenced Kabila to death in absentia at the end of September. He was convicted on charges including treason and war crimes, amid allegations by the authorities that he helped establish a political alliance connected to M23. The case has further intensified tensions between the former president and the current administration.
Kabila governed the country from 2001 to 2019. After spending an extended period outside the country, he returned to public view in Goma in 2025 and signalled his intention to play a political role in opposition to Tshisekedi’s government.
Meanwhile, M23 has strengthened its position across eastern DR Congo. In an offensive in early 2025, the movement seized Goma and Bukavu, two strategically important cities. Kinshasa has repeatedly accused neighbouring Rwanda of providing military support to the group, allegations that have contributed to deteriorating relations and wider regional tensions.
The emergence of the new alliance also comes amid debate over the country’s constitutional future. Tshisekedi’s second term is due to end in 2028, while speculation about possible constitutional changes has prompted opposition from political forces concerned about the rules governing presidential succession.
Diplomatic initiatives, including mediation efforts involving the United States and Qatar, have sought to reduce hostilities and establish a lasting settlement. However, announced agreements have yet to bring a durable end to the fighting.
Kabila’s new leadership role could reshape relationships among political opposition groups and armed actors in the east. Its practical impact will depend on the alliance’s ability to coordinate its members, its military and political strategy, and the response of the Congolese government and regional partners. The announcement raises fresh questions about the prospects for peace and the country’s political transition ahead of 2028.
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