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Former president returns to lead political-military alliance opposing Kinshasa government
The alliance brings together Kabila, who ruled the DRC for nearly two decades, and the M23 rebel group currently active in eastern DRC. Multiple attempts to reach a peace agreement between government forces, rebels and armed groups in the region have so far failed.
Many analysts and commentators warn that the new coalition is likely to worsen the fighting in eastern DRC, an area that has seen decades of instability and violence involving numerous armed groups.
Joseph Kabila was president of the DRC from 2001 to 2019. The M23 is one of many rebel groups operating in eastern DRC, a region plagued by conflict over resources, ethnic tensions and weak state control. Several peace initiatives have been attempted, including agreements with various armed groups, but none have produced lasting stability.
Kabila and M23 coalition: They aim to challenge the government in Kinshasa, portraying themselves as a political-military force seeking change. DRC government: The government has previously labelled M23 as a terrorist group and is unlikely to accept the coalition as a legitimate political actor. Regional and international actors: Neighbouring countries and international bodies have often supported peace processes but have struggled to enforce ceasefire agreements. Many fear the coalition will further destabilise the region.