The Coup Attempt Was Put Down in the DRC
In a swift response to an early Sunday threat, The Democratic Republic of Congo’s armed forces successfully repelled an attempted coup d’etat involving a mix of Congolese and foreign assailants. The nation’s military spokesperson, Sylvain Ekenge, addressed the nation via a televised statement, confirming that the defense and security forces had neutralized the threat. “These foreigners and Congolese have been put out of action, including their leader,” Ekenge stated, without clarifying whether the attackers were detained or killed.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Tina Salama, a spokeswoman for President Felix Tshisekedi, informed Reuters of an assault on the presidential palace that same morning. She assured that the army had swiftly regained control. This incident followed an earlier attack on the residence of Vital Kamerhe, a parliamentary figure and potential future speaker, which resulted in fatalities among two guards and an assailant.
The United States embassy in the DRC heightened the sense of urgency with a security alert regarding “ongoing activity by DRC security elements” and reports of gunfire near the government buildings.
Amidst this turmoil, a Facebook page allegedly belonging to Christian Malanga, a U.S.-based politician, broadcasted a live video seemingly showing him orchestrating the coup. In this unverified footage, Malanga criticizes the current administration in Lingala, expressing frustration with President Tshisekedi and Kamerhe’s leadership.
President Tshisekedi, who secured a second term last December, has been under scrutiny for not forming a government six weeks after appointing a prime minister. Meanwhile, Kamerhe’s bid for speaker of parliament faced delays as the election scheduled for Saturday was postponed by the president.
As calm returns to the capital, the events serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the DRC’s political stability and security.
