Government forces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have successfully thwarted an attempted coup, which unfolded late Saturday night, leaving the nation on edge as authorities work to restore order and investigate those involved.
“An attempted coup d’etat has been put down by the defense and security forces. The attempt involved foreigners and Congolese. These foreigners and Congolese have been put out of action, including their leader,” stated Brigadier General Sylvain Ekenge, spokesperson for the Congolese army. He further assured that the situation was “nipped in the bud and the situation is under control,” but provided no additional details.
The armed men attacked the Kinshasa residence of Vital Kamerhe, a federal legislator and candidate for Speaker of the National Assembly. However, Kamerhe’s guards successfully repelled the attackers, according to Michel Moto Muhima, his spokesperson, on the X social media platform.
“The Honorable Vital Kamerhe and his family are safe and sound. Their security has been reinforced,” Muhima wrote.
Earlier reports indicated that two guards and an assailant were killed in an attack on a nearby home of Kamerhe, who is expected to be named Speaker of the National Assembly. This was corroborated by Kamerhe’s spokesperson and the Japanese ambassador in posts on X.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident as they work to ensure stability and prevent further unrest in the nation.