Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi is set to establish a unity government, according to his spokesperson on Saturday. This decision comes as he faces increasing domestic pressure over his handling of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels' offensive in eastern provinces.

The M23's capture of significant areas in eastern Congo, rich in valuable mineral deposits, has sparked fears of a broader conflict and led some opposition members to predict that Tshisekedi's presidency may not endure.

On Saturday, Tshisekedi addressed the ruling Sacred Union coalition, urging them to avoid internal conflicts: "We must unite ... let's stand together to face the enemy."

Presidency spokesperson Tina Salama announced that Tshisekedi would form a national unity government and implement leadership changes within the coalition, but provided no further details.

Since the beginning of the year, Congo has suffered consecutive losses in the North and South Kivu provinces, leading to criticism of the authorities' military strategy.

"His management is one of the causes of the current crisis," said opposition figure Herve Diakiese, condemning the move to form a unity government. "Tshisekedi is more focused on preserving his power, while we are more concerned with saving Congo, with or without him."