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On Sunday, May 19th, 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faced a dramatic turn of events when a group of armed men attempted to overthrow the government. The attempted coup, though ultimately unsuccessful, caused chaos and violence in the capital city of Kinshasa.
The attack began early in the morning, with armed attackers targeting several locations. They reportedly stormed the residences of President Felix Tshisekedi and a key government official, Vital Kamerhe. Security forces guarding Kamerhe’s residence successfully repelled the attackers, with some casualties reported.
Meanwhile, a group of attackers managed to breach the security perimeter of the Presidential Palace. This audacious move sent shockwaves through the country. Videos circulating online, though unverified, showed armed men inside the palace grounds.
The leader of the attempted coup, a Congolese politician named Christian Malanga, even live-streamed himself from inside the palace on social media. Malanga, who had been living in exile in the United States, called for the president to step down and expressed frustration with the government’s performance.
However, the Congolese military swiftly responded to the crisis. Security forces quickly mobilized and surrounded the Presidential Palace. A shootout ensued, resulting in the death of Malanga and several attackers.
Reports indicate that at least six people were killed in the entire ordeal, including Malanga, some attackers, and security personnel. Dozens of people were also arrested, with some reports suggesting the involvement of foreign nationals.
The swift response by the Congolese military was crucial in preventing the coup from succeeding. President Tshisekedi addressed the nation later that day, assuring citizens that the situation was under control and thanking the security forces for their bravery.
The attempted coup has raised questions about the stability of the DRC. The country has a long history of political unrest, and this incident highlights the ongoing challenges the government faces.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the plot and who may have been involved. Authorities are also searching for a motive behind the attack, though Malanga’s online statements provide some clues about his dissatisfaction with the government.
The international community has expressed concern about the attempted coup and urged all parties to remain calm and uphold democratic principles. The DRC’s neighbors are also watching the situation closely, as instability in the region could have wider repercussions.
While the immediate threat has been neutralized, the DRC’s attempted coup serves as a stark reminder of the country’s political vulnerabilities. The coming days and weeks will likely see increased scrutiny of the government and ongoing efforts to ensure the country’s stability.