The Congolese President Laurent Kabila was shot dead by his personal bodyguard, on Tuesday, afternoon after an argument with senior generals. A curfew has been imposed in Congo. The first reports of the President`s death originated from officials in Uganda and Rwanda - both of which are backing rebels seeking to overthrow the Kabila government. The Congolese authorities ordered the closure of sea, land and air routes into Kinshasa and the army took control of the capital`s airports. Phone links were also cut for a time.
The situation in the capital is reported to be quiet with no disturbances of any kind. Shooting was heard in the vicinity of the presidential palace around midday, and lasted for about one hour. No incidents have been reported from other Congolese cities.
Bureau Report