Republic of Congo's main opposition leader denied bail

Republic of Congo’s main opposition leader Jean- Marie Mokoko, who has been detained since June on charges of violating state security and illegal possession of weapons has been denied bail.

This after he was issued with additional charges of public incitement and disorder.

His lawyer Yvon Eric Ibouoanga said that the court’s decision lacked a legal basis.

Now his defense team has said it will make a new request to authorities for the release of Mokoko in accordance with provisions contained in Congolese laws.

Denis Sassou Nguesso’s government has accused Mokoko of involvement in an alleged coup attempt in 2007. Mokoko’s supporters say the president is trying to stifle dissent, a charge the government denies.

There had been calls from a section of the opposition for a presidential pardon to the former military head but the calls have ended up on deaf ears.

News Agencies