Scores dead as protests turn violent in Congo

At least 17 people, including three police officers, were killed after fierce protests broke out in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, on Monday. Violence erupted after police allegedly intimidated thousands of demonstrators, who had gathered on the streets demanding President Joseph Kabila to step down. The protesters were authorized by Kinshasa governor to hold a march around the city but the situation quickly went out of control as security forces blocked the marchers from approaching the central meeting place.

Opposition groups claimed that more than 50 people were killed as police opened fire on the crowd, writes the BBC. Angry protesters torched several cars, smashed glass panes on buildings and barricaded one of the busiest roads in Kinshasa.

People fear that Kabila has been deliberately delaying the elections to hold on to power beyond his two-term limit, which expires in December, reports The New York Times. The electoral commission, which was due to announce the election schedule on Monday, said that polls would be delayed until next year, as it needs more time to compile a new voter list.

Angered by the violence, the United States warned of imposing additional sanctions on Congolese officials responsible for repression, notes Voice Of America. French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault described the situation as “dangerous and extremely worrying,” adding that an endless delay in holding elections indicated that Kabila intended to stay in power.