AFC/M23 Leader Advocates for Federalism and Renaming of the DRC

Goma, 27 November 2025 - Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo, leader of the AFC/M23 coalition fighting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government, has called for a major overhaul of the country’s governance, including a proposal to rename it the Federal Republic of Congo (RFC).

Speaking at a seminar in Goma, Nangaa emphasized that the DRC, which has undergone five name changes since colonial times, requires a governance system that empowers provinces and respects local autonomy. The current name, Democratic Republic of Congo, was adopted by Laurent-Désiré Kabila in 1997 after he overthrew Mobutu Sese Seko.

Nangaa outlined the coalition’s vision of a federal system, where provinces would have substantial independence, including control over mining, agriculture, livestock, tourism, culture, forestry, infrastructure, and energy. Under this model, the national government in Kinshasa would retain authority only over military, foreign affairs, and taxation.

He highlighted the success of federal governance in countries such as the United States, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, Nigeria, and the United Arab Emirates, suggesting that similar principles could address longstanding regional grievances in the DRC.

Nangaa made it clear that the coalition seeks not only structural change but also symbolic reform, proposing the name Federal Republic of Congo (RFC) to reflect a federated governance system.

“Our vision as a coalition is that what is called DRC today should become the Federal Republic of Congo. We are not afraid to say it. That is the choice, that is the vision,” Nangaa told participants.

The AFC/M23 leader stressed that the coalition’s goal is to ensure all Congolese citizens benefit from the country’s resources, countering the perception that the central government in Kinshasa disproportionately favors the capital.

He said federalism would help address the persistent inequalities and oppression experienced in several provinces, enabling local populations to control and develop their own territories.