Government officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo have allegedly shut down Internet sites, text messaging services and radio stations amid growing demonstrations over the African nation’s upcoming elections. The unrest saw U.S
. officials urge Congolese security forces Wednesday to exercise restraint and avoid violence against demonstrators.
“The United States is troubled by reports of widespread violent demonstrations, looting, unlawful arrests, and violence against protesters,” according to a press release from the State Department released Wednesday. “We call upon all Congolese security forces, as well as civil society and opposition members, to exercise restraint and refrain from acts of violence. We stress the importance of protecting political space and ensuring that all citizens have the right to peacefully assemble and exercise their rights to free speech.”
Congolese protesters are upset over proposed legislation that would allow President Joseph Kabila, 43, to extend his stay in power, according to AFP. The protests have seen hundreds of demonstrators burn down a town hall in the capital Kinshasa, mass looting and prison escapes. At Kinshasa University Wednesday, gunshot rang out as students were locked in a standoff against police.