Ex-president named leader of new DR Congo rebel coalition

Former DR Congo President Joseph Kabila named leader of new rebel coalition

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Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila has been named the leader of a new rebel coalition seeking to oust the government in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) aims to coordinate 'resistance forces' to end 'tyranny' in DR Congo and will pursue the goal 'by all means, including force'.

The unveiling of the FRN on Monday is the clearest indication so far of Kabila's direct involvement in an armed movement a year after he was sentenced to death in absentia for treason. He had previously denied having links to the M23 rebel group.

Claude Ibalanky, the coalition's adviser, announced the group's leadership at a press conference at Kabila's residence in Goma, the largest city in eastern DR Congo, which has been under the control of the M23 since last year. Video released by the group showed Kabila signing documents at the group's declaration along with other leaders.

M23 leader Sultani Makenga will serve as one of Kabila's four deputies in the new movement. The other three also come from the AFC-M23 alliance which last year seized much of mineral-rich eastern DR Congo.

The announcement of the new group comes days after Kabila delivered an address in which he said he would set out how Congolese people should act to 'rescue' their country. On Friday, Kabila accused President Félix Tshisekedi's government of disregarding proposals he had put forward last year, including some aimed at ending the conflict in eastern DR Congo.

Kabila also accused the government of undermining constitutional rule, mismanaging the economy and failing to improve security. He further alleged arbitrary arrests of political opponents and military officers. The government has not publicly responded to those claims.