The armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo announced on May 19 that they had repelled a coup attempt involving both Congolese and foreign elements on the same morning (local time).

In a televised statement, military spokesman Sylvain Ekenge said the coup attempt had been foiled by Congolese defense and security forces.

Accordingly, this coup plot involved both foreigners and Congolese. Mr. Ekenge also informed that these people have been "suspended", including the leader of this group.

Presidential spokesman Felix Tshisekedi also confirmed to Reuters that the presidential palace was attacked on Sunday morning but the military had regained control of the site.

Earlier, two soldiers and an attacker were killed in a raid on the nearby home of Vital Kamerhe, a politician and member of the country's lower house of parliament.

The US Embassy also issued a security alert on May 19 about "ongoing activity by Congolese security units," as well as reports of gunfire in the area.

Mr Tshisekedi was re-elected for a second term, after winning an overwhelming majority in the presidential election last December. But six weeks after appointing a prime minister, the Democratic Republic of Congo has yet to form a government.

Meanwhile, Mr. Kamerhe was a candidate for the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives in the election scheduled to take place yesterday but was delayed.