DR Congo army says it has thwarted attempted coup

The army in the Democratic Republic of Congo has successfully thwarted an attempted coup against President Felix Tshisekedi in the capital city of Kinshasa. According to Brig Gen Sylavin Ekenge, the army spokesperson, several suspects have been apprehended and the situation is now under control. The incident occurred when a group of armed individuals attacked the residence of Vital Kamerhe, a former chief of staff and close associate of President Tshisekedi. The attack resulted in a violent exchange of gunfire, leading to casualties on both sides. Additionally, the assailants managed to occupy the Palais de la Nation, the highly secured office of the President, located in the city center. Despite these events, President Tshisekedi has not issued any public statements regarding the situation. Reports from local media suggest that the attackers are affiliated with the New Zaire Movement, which is linked to the formerly-exiled politician Christian Malanga. The President, who was re-elected for a second term in the disputed elections last year, has faced significant challenges, including election-related violence and ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the country, where most of the natural resources are located.