Convicted war criminal Lubanga announces new rebel group in east Congo

|Published 5:15PM ET, Monday March 31, 2025|

​Thomas Lubanga, a convicted war criminal residing in Uganda, has announced the formation of a new rebel group named the Convention for the Popular Revolution (CPR). The group aims to overthrow the government in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) Ituri province, adding to the region’s existing security challenges. ​

Lubanga, who was the first individual convicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2012 for recruiting child soldiers, was released in 2020. Subsequently, President Félix Tshisekedi appointed him to a peace initiative for Ituri. However, after being held hostage by a rebel group in 2022—a situation he attributes to the government—Lubanga relocated to Uganda. ​

In written communications, Lubanga stated that the CPR encompasses both political and military components, with armed personnel in three areas of Ituri. He emphasized that achieving peace in the region necessitates immediate governmental change but noted that the group has not yet initiated military actions. ​

SPONSORED

Level Up Your Career with Online Computer Training!

Master In-Demand Tech Skills — 100% Online & Flexible

The emergence of the CPR occurs amid ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo, particularly with the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels making significant advances. The presence of multiple armed groups has led to increased civilian casualties and displacement. Recent reports indicate a “renewed spike in atrocities,” resulting in over 200 civilian deaths and the displacement of approximately 100,000 individuals since the year’s start. ​

The situation in Ituri remains highly volatile, with various armed factions contributing to the region’s instability. Efforts to establish peace are ongoing, but the proliferation of groups like the CPR poses significant challenges to achieving lasting stability.

​