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CONGO DR PROTESTS: President Kabila denies violence against demonstrators

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CONGO DR PROTESTS: President Kabila denies violence against demonstrators

Four days after Pope Francis condemned the killings of no less than six protesters marching against the removal of President Joseph Kabila, the country’s leader has denied such claims.

During his first news conference in six years, Kabila denied that his forces had violently dispersed pro-democracy protests but instead accused demonstrators of arson and attacking the police.

“I am not (and) … will never be against peaceful protests by political parties,” Kabila, wearing a dark suit and tie and sporting what has become his trademark goatee, told journalists in the presidential palace in Kinshasa.

Read also: DRC: Authorities block Internet access as protests continue

“But (not) if a political demonstration is intended to burn, kill police … incinerate things.”

Pope Francis had earlier voiced his concern over the state of affairs in the East African country while speaking before a crowd at St. Peter’s Square after a regular general audience.

He said; “Unfortunately, worrying news continues to arrive from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“I, therefore, renew my appeal that everyone makes all efforts to avoid any form of violence. From its side, the Church wants nothing other than to contribute to peace and to the common good of society,” he added.

The Catholic Church, which is highly influential in Congo, has also become increasingly vocal in its condemnation of President Kabila’s insistence on staying in office long after the end of his mandate.

 

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