A spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights [official website] expressed concern [briefing] Friday over the “violent suppression of peaceful protests” by opposing political parties and the police in anticipation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s upcoming election.

The spokesperson, Ravina Shamdasani, cited two incidents within the past week of the police arresting political dissidents. On September 1 a member of the opposing political party was killed and nine other party members were arrested. On September 3 the police arrested 65 protesters at a demonstration. Last August security forces used live ammunition against protesters, resulting in the deaths of a woman and two children, injuries and mass arrests.

The statement reads, “Ahead of the crucial national elections on 23 December this year, we urge the Congolese authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.” The office also urged investigations into allegations of disproportionate use of force by police officers.

In March the UN human rights chief urged [JURIST report] the DRC to allow for peaceful assembly. Last December Human Rights Watch reported [JURIST report] that the DRC recruited former rebel fighters to help suppress protesters.