Belgium condemns ex-DRC president Kabila’s launch of armed political group FRN
Belgium has condemned the launch of the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN), a political-military group led by former DRC president Joseph Kabila that includes M23 rebel figures and opposes the Kinshasa government. The Belgian Foreign Minister called the move deplorable and urged dialogue to resolve the DRC's crises.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1) · date de l'événement : 2026-10-12
Belgium has strongly condemned former Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Joseph Kabila’s launch of a new political-military movement called the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN).
Unveiled in eastern DRC earlier this month, the FRN is headed by Kabila and includes key figures from the M23 rebel forces, positioning itself in opposition to the government in Kinshasa. The group states its mission is to “end tyranny” and is prepared to use all means, including force.
Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot described the launch as “deplorable, incomprehensible and unacceptable.” He emphasized that political action should not involve violence or attacks on national institutions.
Prévot called for dialogue to address the ongoing crises in the DRC, highlighting the importance of preserving progress made through the Doha and Washington accords, respecting the ceasefire, and protecting civilians.
Kabila was sentenced to death in absentia last year by a Congolese court on charges including treason and war crimes, charges he denies, calling the trial political. The DRC government has accused him of planning a “general attack” on the country.