afrol News, 26 March - President Joseph Kabila of Congo Kinshasa (DRC) today said his government will not accept arm rebellion in the country. Mr Kabila used a news conference to warn the country's former Vice President and presidential polls runner-up, Jean-Pierre Bemba, that gone are the days when his government entertains violence.

President Kabila's speech came few days after heavy gun battles between the army and guards of Mr Bemba who had refused to disarm and join the regular army. The battle, which took place in the capital Kinshasha, left at least 150 people dead.

The fighting became so fierce that soldiers in the Bemba camp started taking to their heels. Mr Bemba himself ran to the South African Embassy where he sought refuge, claiming that his life was in danger.

Speaking at a news conference, President Kabila said law and order had to be restored in the country at all costs. He downplayed Mr Bemba's calls for negotiations, arguing that security cannot be guaranteed through negotiation.

The Congolese President said the fact that Mr Bemba refused to integrate his guards into the army clearly indicated his disrespect for the law.

Mr Bemba is a current senator who is covered by immunity from prosecution. But Congolese officials said they were ready to strip off the immunity so that he faces charges of treason. President Kabila reiterated that judicial procedure against the Senator Bemba would be pursued.

Mr Bemba dismissed the government claims he was planning to overthrow the President Kabila. Rather, he accused the army of attempting to kill him, which he said was a clear sign of new dictatorship in the country.

President Kabila denied making any attempts to turn Congo back to a no-party state, which was the case under Mobutu Sese Seko.

Mr Kabila was voted back to office last year in a transparent and fair election in which he polled 58 percent as compared to Mr Bemba's 42 percent.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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