The Democratic Republic of Congo military thwarted an attempted coup in Kinshasa on Sunday, involving both foreign and Congolese individuals.
According to the AFP, the coup attempt took place outside the residence of Economy Minister Vital Kamerhe in the Gombe area, close to President Felix Tshisekedi’s offices at the Palais de la Nation.
According to a spokesperson for the Congolese army, General Sylvain Ekenge said the attempted coup was “nipped in the bud” by defence and security forces. Ekenge stated that the individuals involved, including their leader, would no longer pose a threat.
Shots were heard near the Palais de la Nation during the coup attempt, as confirmed by multiple sources. However, Ekenge did not provide further details on the incident.
The situation in the city remained calm later in the morning, as reported by AFP journalists. Social media reports emerged early in the morning of an attack on Kamerhe’s home by armed men, some of whom proceeded to the Palais de la Nation.
The attack on the economy minister’s residence resulted in the deaths of two police officers and one assailant, according to sources.
Japan’s ambassador to Kinshasa, Hidetoshi Ogawa, reported an armed attack at Kamerhe’s residence, confirming that Kamerhe was unharmed. France’s ambassador also reported automatic weapons fire in the quarter, advising nationals to avoid the area.
Videos circulating on social media showed men in fatigues at the Palais de la Nation, brandishing Zaire flags.
Heavily armed military vehicles were seen driving from the Palais de la Nation towards a large intersection in Gombe, and construction blocks obstructed the road leading to the Palais de la Nation.
Soldiers on foot blocked access to Boulevard Thsatshi, near Tshisekedi’s offices.
This incident occurred five months after the election, in which President Tshisekedi was re-elected with over 70% of votes in the first round. However, a new government has yet to be formed.
Kamerhe was named a candidate for president of the National Assembly, the DRC’s main legislative body, on April 23.
