The opposition coalition in Congo Republic said on Saturday it would boycott legislative elections in July if the government does not release detained opposition leaders and end a 'war' in the southeast of the country. The March 2016 election, which gave Sassou Nguesso a third term, was criticised by opposition parties and foreign powers for irregularities. "The decision to hold legislative and local elections is perceived as an act that ruptures national solidarity," said Claudine Munari, president of the opposition federation. Authorities said in March security forces had killed around 15 rebel fighters in the Pool region in the latest police and army operation. The unrest in the Pool region has forced thousands to flee their homes and sparked allegations of abuse by government troops from human rights groups.

Source: dna May 27, 2017 19:29 UTC