The head of a Congolese satirical weekly has been arrested for libel, a journalists' union said Wednesday, weeks ahead of polls in which President Denis Sassou Nguesso will seek re-election.

Congo detains journalist weeks before presidential vote

Voters in the Democratic Republic of Congo went to the polls on Sunday in elections that will shape the future of their vast, troubled country, amid fears that violence could overshadow the ballot.

DR Congo goes to polls after troubled odyssey

The country's political crisis deepened last month after the opposition accused President Kabila of manipulating the electoral system

Congolese Prime Minister Ponyo offers resignation to avert political crisis