The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation, which is a new coalition of rebels, led by the former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Joseph Kabila has just seized two strategic towns; the the Kalonge and Bitale hamlets.
Known by its French term, Front pour la Refondation de la Nation (FRN), the new coalition of rebels have now taken control of Bitale and Kalonge in Kalehe territory following renewed fighting across the province.
Kalonge is a rural community and groupment of villages located in South Kivu Province in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), situated in the highlands west of Lake Kivu and near Kalehe and Kabare territories.
“The FRN elements are currently in Bitale. Their fighters have overrun through a place called Masanganjiya and have just entered Bitale,” a local source told The Tanzania Times on Saturday evening of November 7, 2026.
Bitale happens to be a strategic town located in South Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The hamlet is situated along the axis cutting across Tshivanga, Bulambika and Hombo near the Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
Another source based in Kalonge reported that the rebels have been around the area since 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.
“The Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) soldiers have so far been spotted in Fendula, specifically at the group leader’s house,” the source added.
The Government forces and Wazalendo fighters reportedly withdrew toward Myowe, while troops remained present in Bulambika.
The developments come amid intensified clashes across Kabare, Kalehe, Fizi, Mwenga and Walungu.
Led by the former DR Congo president, Joseph Kabila, the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN) is a politico-military coalition of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It was officially launched on October 12, 2026.
The FRN comprises three vice-presidents, including Corneille Nangaa, Bertrand Bisimwa, and Sultani Makenga, who was also chief of staff of the Congolese Revolutionary Army.
The FRN now replaces the Congo River Alliance (AFC) and brings together some rebel groups previously united within it, including the March 23 Movement (M23).
