Clashes broke out in Kinshasa on Tuesday as opposition supporters gathered to protest proposed constitutional changes in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Police used tear gas to disperse protesters after clashes erupted between opposition supporters and pro-government activists.
AFP journalists witnessed the confrontation.
Opposition stages nationwide protest
The protest was organised by the C64 opposition coalition.
The group called for nationwide demonstrations against President Felix Tshisekedi’s proposed constitutional changes.
Opposition parties have accused Tshisekedi of seeking to alter the constitution so he can pursue a third term.
Hundreds of people joined the demonstration in Kinshasa.
Many carried flags representing opposition parties within the coalition.
Police deploy tear gas
Large numbers of riot police were deployed along the planned route of the march.
Security officers were also stationed at major intersections across the capital.
The situation changed after the march began.
Clashes broke out between opposition supporters and pro-government activists.
Police responded by firing tear gas.
The protesters were forced to retreat.
AFP journalists reported that at least two protesters were injured.
Protests spread to other cities
Tensions were also reported in other major cities.
In Lubumbashi, opposition activists gathered despite a protest ban imposed by local authorities.
Police moved to disperse the crowd using tear gas and warning shots.
Several people were arrested, according to an AFP journalist at the scene.
Mohamed Eyenga, a senior C64 official, criticised the security response.
He said many opposition activists had been arrested.
Police reject arrest claim
General Blaise Kilimbalimba, the provincial police commander, disputed the opposition’s account.
He said peaceful demonstrators had not been arrested.
According to him, the police were taking steps to allow residents to move freely.
He also described the situation as calm.
More arrests reported
In Mbandaka, capital of Equateur Province, authorities had also banned the planned protest.
About 100 activists reportedly gathered before security officers dispersed them.
An AFP journalist reported that officers carried weapons during the operation.
Around 10 people were reportedly arrested.
The demonstrations have increased political tensions in the DRC as opposition parties continue to challenge the proposed constitutional changes.
