The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has accused former president Joseph Kabila of orchestrating a planned “general attack” in alliance with the Rwandan-backed armed group M23. This announcement came as Kabila took a more active role in an insurgency that has destabilized the eastern region of the country.

Patrick Muyaya, government spokesman, stated that Kabila “has decided to formalize his widespread attack against the Republic,” adding that the armed campaign would lead to violence targeting Congolese civilians in a bid to seize territory. Muyaya described the effort as a rebranding of existing forces with unchanged intentions and tactics.

On Monday, Kabila publicly aligned with M23 leaders to establish a new entity called the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN). This politico-military coalition aims to combine resources and capabilities to “put an end to tyranny by any means, including force.” Kabila is set to lead the FRN, with M23 commanders serving as his deputies.

Kabila, who governed DR Congo from 2001 to 2019, was sentenced to death in absentia last year on charges of “complicity” with M23. Authorities accuse him of helping to create the Congo River Alliance (AFC), the former political wing of the M23, an allegation Kabila has denied. After spending several years abroad, Kabila reemerged in May 2025 in Goma, a key eastern city now under M23 control, and has since maintained a presence in rebel-held zones.

The M23 insurgency, supported by the Rwandan military, launched an offensive in early 2025 that resulted in the capture of Goma and Bukavu. Although front lines have somewhat stabilized since, sporadic and sometimes intense fighting involving drone strikes and artillery continues, particularly in South Kivu province.

Kabila’s renewed political activity occurs amid heightened tensions surrounding a proposed constitutional amendment that could enable current President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term. Tshisekedi, who succeeded Kabila in office, is currently serving his second and constitutionally final five-year term, due to conclude in 2028. Opposition protests against the amendment were held in June and September, but major opposition coalitions have so far distanced themselves from Kabila.

Despite this, Kabila has voiced support for opposition forces. In a speech posted online last Friday, he criticized the government, accusing it of being “motivated solely by its own perpetuation in power,” signaling continued political friction as DR Congo approaches upcoming electoral milestones.