Kabila bans protest marches in capital

KINSHASA - President Laurent Kabila's administration yesterday banned all political activities and demonstrations in the capital…

KINSHASA - President Laurent Kabila's administration yesterday banned all political activities and demonstrations in the capital until further notice, citing a need to ensure security.

The crackdown followed a decision by the veteran opposition leader, Mr Etienne Tshisekedi, and his militants to stage protest marches in the city tomorrow and on Friday.

Earlier, Mr Kabila's Justice Minister, Mr Celestin Louangy, said the law in the new Democratic Republic of Congo would be administered impartially: "We must end something that has always prevailed in this country - a sense of impunity."