1st LD Writethru: UN chief concerned at tensions in Congo

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Wednesday voiced his concern at tensions between opposition parties and the government of the Republic of the Congo in relation to a referendum on a new draft constitution slated for Sunday.

"Reports of recent violence are particularly worrying," said a statement issued here Wednesday night by Ban's spokesman.

"The secretary-general encourages all stakeholders to choose the path of inclusive political dialogue ahead of the referendum, and to resolve peacefully any dispute that may arise from this exercise," the statement said.

"The secretary-general also calls on the authorities to safeguard the right to peaceful demonstration," the statement said.

Tensions are rising in Congo after radical opposition parties called for protests starting Tuesday, to oppose the referendum, scheduled for Oct. 25, which is intended 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.

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.

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