Rumors are swirling on social media platforms across many African countries suggesting an ongoing military coup in Congo Brazzaville.
But the question on everyone’s mind is – is there really a coup underway in Congo Brazzaville? Let’s break it down.
The Claim
Social media posts and messages have been circulated claiming:
Suspected Military Coup ongoing in the Republic of Congo. The country’s president is in New York, the military is taking control of key facilities in the capital. Congo borders the Central African Republic, and about 70,000 child slaves work in extreme conditions in the Congo’s cobalt mining industry, which produces 72% of the world’s cobalt, a green energy source.
What We Found
1. Is there an ongoing military coup?
In direct contradiction to the circulating rumors, the spokesperson for the Government of Congo Brazzaville, Thierry Moungalla, addressed the allegations of a coup in the country.
His response, when translated, reads:
“URGENT: Some fanciful information is evoking serious events allegedly taking place in #Brazzaville. The Government denies these fake news. We reassure the public about the calm that prevails and invite the populations to go about their activities serenely. #ComGouvCg”
2. Where is the President of Congo?
The claim states that the President is currently in New York. While the president’s location could be accurate, his whereabouts do not validate or invalidate a coup’s occurrence. Presidents often travel for diplomatic reasons, summits, or personal reasons.
Our Verdict
Based on the available evidence, and the statement from Congo Brazzaville’s government spokesperson, we rate the claim of an ongoing military coup in Congo Brazzaville as FALSE.
Claims should always be taken with a grain of skepticism until verified by trusted news sources. Always be sure to check and double-check before sharing or acting on news, especially when it concerns the stability of nations.
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