Congo rules out election re-run as observers flag irregularities

Opposition supporters prepare to demonstrate, while riot police officers amass around Congolese opposition presidential candidate Martin Fayulu's headquarters to block a protest by the opposition who are calling for a re-run of last week's national election, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo December 27, 2023. REUTERS/Benoit Nyemba

KINSHASA (Reuters) -The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursday refused opposition calls for a re-run of disputed elections, as the main observer mission reported "numerous irregularities" that could undermine some results.

Provisional results issued so far from the Dec. 20 general election show President Felix Tshisekedi with a commanding lead, but his opponents have demanded they be annulled, citing widespread issues with the roll-out and tabulation of the vote.