Former DR Congo President Joseph Kabila to Lead New Rebel Coalition
Former Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila has been named leader of the newly formed Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a rebel coalition seeking to remove President Félix Tshisekedi's government. Launched in Goma, the movement brings together former leaders of the AFC/M23 alliance, including M23 military leader Sultani Makenga, who was appointed one of Kabila's deputies. The coalition accuses Tshisekedi's administration of corruption, economic mismanagement, insecurity, and weakening democratic institutions. It is vowing to pursue change by all means, including force. Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019, was sentenced to death in absentia for treason last year. The announcement comes amid continued fighting in eastern DR Congo and stalled peace negotiations.
