DR Congo Conflict: Former President Joseph Kabila Leads Rebel Alliance
Kabila joins the M23 movement to challenge President Tshisekedi, citing constitutional violations and a death sentence.
By Rosa Fuentes ·
Former Democratic Republic of Congo president Joseph Kabila has joined the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, a rebel alliance that includes the M23 group. The 55-year-old politician was named the group's leader in October. This move places him in direct opposition to current President Félix Tshisekedi, the man he helped bring to power in 2019. Kabila now leads a coalition that seeks to remove Tshisekedi from office.
Kabila first rose to prominence in 1996 when he commanded the rebel forces that overthrew Mobutu Sese Seko. He succeeded his father, Laurent Kabila, as president in 2001 after Laurent was assassinated. He served as head of state for 18 years before stepping down in 2019. His return to the front lines marks a sharp reversal of his political trajectory.
The M23 rebels have controlled much of eastern DR Congo since last year. They captured key cities including Goma and Bukavu. Kabila’s entry into the conflict adds a former head of state to a movement that has struggled to gain national legitimacy. Analysts suggest the alliance offers Kabila a path back to influence while providing the rebels with diplomatic weight.
Kabila faces a death sentence after a military court convicted him of treason in absentia in September. He also operates under US sanctions for alleged support of the M23. Henry-Pacifique Mayala, a policy analyst, noted that Kabila had few other options for regaining political influence. Mayala suggested Kabila sought assurances that the partnership would benefit his interests.
Kabila accused Tshisekedi of acting as a tyrant who ignores the constitution. He cited Section 64 of the charter, which allows citizens to resist unconstitutional rule. He stated that the government used the death penalty to intimidate civilians and military members. The opposition C64 coalition refused to back Kabila’s rebellion, arguing that military force alone cannot solve security crises. They plan to seek talks with both leaders.
Richard Moncrieff of the International Crisis Group noted that Tshisekedi retains strong advantages. He cited American backing and control over the political and military systems. Tshisekedi reacted to the announcement by stating that Kabila never loved the country. Tshisekedi maintains he won the 2018 election legitimately, despite claims that he was the beneficiary of a deal with Kabila.
The rivalry between the two leaders dates back to 2020. Tshisekedi broke their power-sharing arrangement to build his own parliamentary majority. Kabila went into exile in South Africa before returning to DR Congo in 2025. He appeared in rebel-held Goma shortly after his return.
Elections are scheduled for 2028, though Tshisekedi has warned that fighting could delay voting. Kabila questioned whether elections can resolve the crisis, asking if the country needs a revolution instead. He argued for a fundamental overhaul of the executive and legislature.
