Roundup: Tension rises in Republic of Congo over opposition protests

Tension is rising in the Republic of Congo after radical opposition parties called for protests starting Tuesday, to oppose a referendum whose objective is to enable the incumbent president contest for a third term.

In the capital Brazzaville, residents who did not wish to experience what they went through during previous protests, especially in 1997, are taking precautionary measures.

In the past few days, several families have been fleeing to the interior of the country to escape the violence that could erupt in the two major cities, Brazzaville and Pointe Noire.

However, in a statement released Monday, the Congolese government reiterated that "Tuesday Oct. 20, 2015 remains an ordinary working day for both the public and private sectors."

In this regard, the government urged workers and employers to proceed with their normal activities, insisting that "necessary measures had been taken to guarantee their safety."

At the same time, the Mayor of Brazzaville Hugues Ngouelondele and other concerned institutions have appealed for calm after rumours were spread indicating that the constitutional referendum will be held on Oct. 25, 2015.

Republic of Congo's political class has remained sharply divided over the proposed constitutional referendum, with the opposition claiming it is meant to extend the reign of President Denis Sassou Nguesso.

Sassou Nguesso, 72 years old, first served as the country's president between 1979-1992 and then again after the civil war from 1997.

Republic of Congo's 2002 Constitution prevents presidents from serving more than two consecutive seven-year terms, and prohibits those over 70 from running. Endit