DR Congo army says it stopped attempted coup against President Tshisekedi
The Democratic Republic of Congo army says it has stopped an attempted coup against President Felix Tshisekedi in the capital, Kinshasa, involving Congolese and foreign fighters between Saturday night and Sunday morning. DR Congo army spokesperson Brig Gen Sylavin Ekenge reported this in a short speech on the state channel. Several foreigners and Congolese were arrested.
"The army assures that the situation is under control and asks the residents of Kinshasa to move freely," said Ekenge. The coup plotters were "all put out of action, including their leader".
Earlier on Sunday, it had become clear that three people were killed in an attack on candidate parliamentary leader Vital Kamerhe's home in Kinshasa. The assailants also managed to enter the presidential palace.
More comprehensive updates will be provided later, but for now, the Congolese regime has made it clear to the population and the international community that public order has been fully restored, ensuring the safety and security of all.
Armed attempts
At approximately the same time as the attack on Kamerhe's house, a live stream on the Facebook page of government opponent Christan Malanga showed armed men in the presidential palace, carrying flags of Zaire, the country's former name. They claimed to be from the diaspora and to have brought their children with them. They stated they wanted to unseat Tshisekedi from power and were lashing out at Kamerhe.
Kamerhe home, like the presidential palace, is located in the Gombe government district. The politician became known as a confidante of former president Joseph Kabila until he became a presidential candidate himself. In the meantime, he has backed Tshisekedi. In the current government, which will still be in charge after the elections at the end of next year, he fills the role of deputy prime minister and minister of economy. He is also a candidate to become speaker of parliament. The vote for that candidacy was initially scheduled for Saturday but was postponed due to disagreements in Tshisekedi's party.
© PHOTO XINHUA
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